What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pew
Example
The church was filled with people sitting in the pews. [pew: noun]
Example
We had great seats in the front pew of the theater. [pew: noun]
Example
I sat in the pew next to the window on the bus. [pew: noun]
seat
Example
Please take a seat and wait for your turn. [seat: noun]
Example
I have a seat reserved for me in the front row. [seat: noun]
Example
He was elected to a seat on the city council. [seat: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seat is more commonly used than pew in everyday language. Seat is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pew is less common and has a more specific association with communal seating in churches or theaters.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pew and seat?
Both pew and seat can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pew may be considered more formal due to its association with religious or theatrical settings.
