What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
roomie
Example
My roomie and I share a small apartment near campus. [roomie: noun]
Example
I'm looking for a new roomie since my current one is moving out. [roomie: informal term for roommate]
housemate
Example
My housemate and I split the rent and utilities evenly each month. [housemate: noun]
Example
I'm interviewing potential housemates to fill the empty room in our apartment. [housemate: formal term for roommate]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Housemate is more commonly used than roomie in formal or professional settings, while roomie is more commonly used in casual or personal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between roomie and housemate?
Housemate is a more formal term than roomie, and is often used in professional or business settings. Roomie, on the other hand, is a more casual and informal term that is often used in personal or social contexts.
