What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lottery
Example
I bought a lottery ticket and won $100! [lottery: noun]
Example
The state lottery is held every week, and the winning numbers are announced on TV. [lottery: adjective]
sweepstake
Example
I entered a sweepstake to win a free vacation. [sweepstake: noun]
Example
The company is running a sweepstake promotion where customers can win a new car. [sweepstake: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lottery is more commonly used than sweepstake in everyday language. Lottery is a well-known form of gambling that is often regulated by the government and used to raise funds for various programs. Sweepstake is less common and is often associated with promotional events run by businesses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lottery and sweepstake?
Both lottery and sweepstake are relatively informal terms. However, lottery is more commonly used in formal contexts due to its association with government programs and regulations.
