What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
format
Example
Please make sure the report is in PDF format. [format: noun]
Example
The book was formatted with clear headings and subheadings. [formatted: past participle]
layout
Example
The layout of the website was easy to navigate. [layout: noun]
Example
She spent hours laying out the design for the magazine cover. [laying out: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Format is more commonly used than layout in technical and professional contexts, such as business reports and academic papers. Layout is more commonly used in creative fields, such as graphic design and architecture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between format and layout?
Format is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it is often used in technical and professional contexts. Layout, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the purpose and audience.
