What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
housemate
Example
My housemate and I split the rent and utilities equally. [housemate: noun]
Example
I'm looking for a new housemate to share my apartment with. [housemate: noun]
roommate
Example
My roommate and I share a bedroom and a bathroom. [roommate: noun]
Example
I'm looking for a new roommate to move in with me next month. [roommate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Roommate is more commonly used than housemate in American English, while housemate is more commonly used in British English. Both words are commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between housemate and roommate?
Both housemate and roommate are informal words and are used in casual conversations. However, roommate may be used more frequently in formal contexts, such as legal documents or official forms.
