What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
index
Example
I found the definition I was looking for in the index at the back of the book. [index: noun]
Example
The stock market index rose by 2% today. [index: noun]
Example
We need to index these files by date for easier access. [index: verb]
inventory
Example
We need to do an inventory check to see what products we have in stock. [inventory: noun]
Example
The store manager spent the whole day taking inventory of all the items on the shelves. [inventory: noun]
Example
We need to inventory our office equipment to see what needs to be replaced. [inventory: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inventory is more commonly used than index in everyday language, especially in business or retail contexts. Index is more commonly used in academic or research contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between index and inventory?
Index is more formal than inventory, which is often used in everyday language and informal contexts.
