What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
husband
Example
My husband and I have been married for ten years. [husband: noun]
Example
He promised to love, honor, and cherish his wife as her husband. [husband: noun]
spouse
Example
She introduced her spouse to the guests at the party. [spouse: noun]
Example
The couple decided to seek counseling to improve their relationship as spouses. [spouses: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Husband is more commonly used than spouse in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. However, spouse is more commonly used in legal or formal contexts where gender-neutral language is preferred.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between husband and spouse?
Spouse is more formal and neutral than husband, making it more appropriate for legal or formal contexts. However, husband is more colloquial and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
