What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
setting
Example
The setting of the novel is a small town in the 1950s. [setting: noun]
Example
She spent hours setting up the decorations for the party. [setting: verb]
background
Example
The protagonist's background is revealed through flashbacks throughout the movie. [background: noun]
Example
The music in the background added to the suspense of the scene. [background: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Setting is more commonly used than background in everyday language, especially in the context of literature, film, and theater. Background is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts, such as sociology or psychology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between setting and background?
Both setting and background are versatile words that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, background may be slightly more formal due to its association with academic or technical language.
