What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
secretaire
Example
She sat down at the secretaire to write a letter. [secretaire: noun]
Example
The antique secretaire had intricate carvings and a beautiful finish. [secretaire: adjective]
escritoire
Example
He kept his stationery in the top drawer of the escritoire. [escritoire: noun]
Example
The old-fashioned escritoire had a leather writing surface and brass fittings. [escritoire: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Secrétaire is more commonly used than escritoire in everyday language. Secrétaire is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while escritoire is less common and may be considered outdated or archaic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between secretaire and escritoire?
Both secretaire and escritoire are formal words, but secretaire may be considered more formal due to its association with antique or high-end furniture.
