What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
portable
Example
I need a portable charger for my phone when I travel. [portable: adjective]
Example
The portable speaker is perfect for outdoor parties. [portable: adjective]
compact
Example
The compact car is great for city driving. [compact: adjective]
Example
She carries a compact mirror in her purse for touch-ups. [compact: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Portable is more commonly used than compact in everyday language. Portable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while compact is less common and often used in specific contexts such as cars or makeup.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between portable and compact?
Both portable and compact are generally considered informal words, but they can be used in formal contexts depending on the situation and the object being described.
