What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
petate
Example
The family spread out the petate on the ground for their picnic. [petate: noun]
Example
He rolled up his petate and strapped it to his backpack before heading out on the trail. [petate: noun]
Example
She unrolled her petate and began her yoga practice. [petate: noun]
mat
Example
The doormat was covered in mud from all the rain. [mat: noun]
Example
The gymnast landed on the mat with a thud. [mat: noun]
Example
She placed a mat under the vase to prevent scratches on the table. [mat: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mat is more commonly used than petate in everyday language. Mat is a more general term that covers a wide range of contexts, while petate is specific to Mexican culture and may not be familiar to non-Mexican speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between petate and mat?
Both petate and mat are casual and informal terms that can be used in everyday language and informal contexts.
