What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
register
Example
I need to register for the conference before the deadline. [register: verb]
Example
The hospital staff will register your personal information before admitting you. [register: verb]
Example
Her face registered surprise when she saw the gift. [registered: past tense]
record
Example
I need to record my expenses in a spreadsheet. [record: verb]
Example
She broke the world record in the 100-meter dash. [record: noun]
Example
He recorded a song in his home studio. [recorded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Record is more commonly used than register in everyday language. Record is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while register is less common and refers to specific formal or official processes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between register and record?
While register is typically associated with a formal tone, record is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.