What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
greeting
Example
She greeted me with a warm smile and a handshake. [greeted: past tense verb]
Example
I received a greeting card from my friend on my birthday. [greeting: noun]
Example
The president gave a greeting to the foreign dignitaries at the state dinner. [greeting: noun]
welcome
Example
Welcome to our home! Please make yourself comfortable. [welcome: interjection]
Example
The hotel staff gave us a warm welcome upon our arrival. [welcome: noun]
Example
You are welcome to join us for dinner tonight. [welcome: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Welcome is more commonly used than greeting in everyday language. Welcome is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while greeting is less common and refers to a specific act of acknowledging someone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between greeting and welcome?
Welcome is generally considered more formal than greeting. While greeting is often used in personal or social situations, welcome is often used in professional or business situations where a more formal tone is required.
