What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extra
Example
Can I have an extra slice of pizza, please? [extra: adjective]
Example
I always keep an extra pen in my bag, just in case. [extra: noun]
Example
The hotel provides extra towels for guests upon request. [extra: adjective]
surplus
Example
The store had a surplus of apples, so they put them on sale. [surplus: noun]
Example
After finishing the project, we had a surplus of materials left over. [surplus: adjective]
Example
The company had to sell their surplus inventory at a discount. [surplus: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extra is more commonly used than surplus in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and has a more positive connotation. Surplus is less common but is often used in formal or technical contexts to describe excess amounts of goods or materials.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extra and surplus?
Surplus is more formal than extra and is often used in technical or economic contexts. Extra is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
