What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
settee
Example
The couple sat on the settee in the corner of the room. [settee: noun]
Example
She set her book down on the settee and went to make some tea. [settee: noun]
sofa
Example
The family gathered on the sofa to watch a movie together. [sofa: noun]
Example
He likes to take naps on the sofa in the afternoon. [sofa: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sofa is more commonly used than settee in everyday language. Sofa is a versatile piece of furniture that can be found in various settings, while settee is less common and may be associated with a more formal or traditional setting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between settee and sofa?
While settee is typically associated with a more formal or traditional tone, sofa is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.