What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
graph
Example
The graph shows the increase in temperature over time. [graph: noun]
Example
She graphed the results of the experiment to better understand the data. [graphed: past tense verb]
table
Example
The table lists the different types of fruits and their nutritional values. [table: noun]
Example
He tabled the proposal for further discussion at the next meeting. [tabled: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Table is more commonly used than graph in everyday language. Table is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while graph is less common and is typically used in scientific, mathematical, or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between graph and table?
Both graph and table can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, table is more commonly used in academic and research contexts, while graph is more commonly used in scientific and business contexts.