What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lunchroom
Example
The students gathered in the lunchroom to eat their sandwiches. [lunchroom: noun]
Example
I like to sit in the lunchroom and read during my lunch break. [lunchroom: noun]
cafeteria
Example
The hospital cafeteria offers a wide range of food options for visitors and staff. [cafeteria: noun]
Example
I grabbed a quick lunch at the cafeteria before my next meeting. [cafeteria: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cafeteria is more commonly used than lunchroom in everyday language, especially in North America. Cafeteria is a versatile term that covers a wide range of dining establishments, while lunchroom is less common and more specific to certain contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lunchroom and cafeteria?
Cafeteria is generally considered a more formal term than lunchroom, as it is often associated with larger and more professional settings such as hospitals or corporate offices. However, both terms can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.
