What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
membership
Example
I have a membership at the gym, which allows me to use their facilities. [membership: noun]
Example
She is considering membership in the local book club. [membership: noun]
subscription
Example
I have a subscription to Netflix, which allows me to watch movies and TV shows. [subscription: noun]
Example
He subscribed to the monthly magazine and receives it in the mail. [subscribed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subscription is more commonly used than membership in everyday language. Subscription is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while membership is less common and refers specifically to access to a group or organization.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between membership and subscription?
Both membership and subscription can be used in formal and informal contexts, but membership may be more associated with formal organizations and groups, while subscription may be more associated with commercial services and products.
