What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
routine
Example
My morning routine includes waking up, brushing my teeth, and having breakfast. [routine: noun]
Example
She routinely goes for a jog every morning before work. [routinely: adverb]
pattern
Example
The weather pattern in this region is hot and dry during the summer months. [pattern: noun]
Example
He noticed a pattern of behavior in his friend that indicated she was feeling stressed. [pattern: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Routine is more commonly used than pattern in everyday language. Routine is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while pattern is more specific and may be used in more technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between routine and pattern?
Both routine and pattern are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
