What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
glass
Example
The glass in the window shattered during the storm. [glass: noun]
Example
She poured herself a glass of water from the pitcher. [glass: noun]
pane
Example
He replaced the broken pane in the window with a new one. [pane: noun]
Example
The artist painted each pane of the triptych with intricate detail. [pane: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Glass is more commonly used than pane in everyday language due to its versatility and wide range of functions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between glass and pane?
Pane is more technical and specific to construction and design, making it more formal in tone than glass, which is neutral in connotation and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.