What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pottery
Example
She took a pottery class to learn how to make ceramic bowls. [pottery: noun]
Example
The artist created a beautiful pottery vase with intricate designs. [pottery: adjective]
china
Example
We inherited a set of antique china dishes from our grandmother. [china: noun]
Example
The restaurant uses delicate china plates for their fancy meals. [china: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pottery is more commonly used than china in everyday language, as it encompasses a wider range of objects and contexts. However, china is still used in formal settings and is highly valued for its beauty and craftsmanship.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pottery and china?
China is typically associated with a more formal and elegant tone, while pottery can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the object and its purpose.