What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
list
Example
I made a list of groceries that we need to buy. [list: noun]
Example
Can you please list the steps for this project? [list: verb]
Example
The book includes a list of references at the end. [list: noun]
inventory
Example
We need to take inventory of all the products in the warehouse. [inventory: noun]
Example
He inventoried all his belongings before moving out. [inventoried: past tense verb]
Example
The company conducted an inventory of its resources and capabilities. [inventory: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
List is more common in everyday language than inventory. List is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while inventory is more specific and is typically used in a business or organizational setting.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between list and inventory?
Inventory is generally considered more formal than list. It is often used in a professional or technical context, such as accounting or auditing, while list can be used in both formal and informal settings.
