What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
keepsake
Example
She kept the locket as a keepsake from her grandmother. [keepsake: noun]
Example
He gave her a keepsake to remember their time together. [keepsake: noun]
souvenir
Example
I bought a souvenir keychain from my trip to Paris. [souvenir: noun]
Example
She received a souvenir mug from the conference as a gift. [souvenir: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Souvenir is more commonly used than keepsake in everyday language. Souvenir is often associated with travel and tourism, while keepsake is more personal and sentimental.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between keepsake and souvenir?
Both keepsake and souvenir can be used in formal and informal contexts, but keepsake may be considered more formal due to its association with personal possessions and inheritance.