What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sale
Example
The store is having a big sale this weekend. [sale: noun]
Example
She made a sale to a new customer. [sale: noun]
Example
The company's sales have increased by 20% this quarter. [sales: noun]
commerce
Example
E-commerce has become increasingly popular in recent years. [commerce: noun]
Example
International commerce is an important aspect of the global economy. [commerce: noun]
Example
He studied commerce in college and now works in finance. [commerce: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commerce is more commonly used than sale in everyday language, as it covers a broader range of business activities and is not limited to specific events or transactions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sale and commerce?
Commerce is generally considered more formal than sale, as it is a broader and more technical term used in academic, professional, and legal contexts.
