What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fine
Example
The restaurant served a fine meal with excellent service. [fine: adjective]
Example
She had fine hair that was difficult to style. [fine: adjective]
Example
He had to pay a fine for parking in a no-parking zone. [fine: noun]
fee
Example
The lawyer charged a fee for his legal services. [fee: noun]
Example
There is an annual membership fee for the gym. [fee: noun]
Example
The airline charges a fee for checked baggage. [fee: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fee is more commonly used than fine in everyday language. Fee is a common term used in financial transactions and is more straightforward than fine, which has multiple meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fine and fee?
Fee is generally considered more formal than fine. Fee is often used in professional or business contexts, while fine can be used in both formal and informal settings.
