What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shelf
Example
I need to put these books on the shelf. [shelf: noun]
Example
She carefully placed the vase on the shelf. [shelf: noun]
Example
The cat jumped onto the window shelf to bask in the sun. [shelf: noun]
cabinet
Example
I keep my dishes in the kitchen cabinet. [cabinet: noun]
Example
The medicine cabinet is above the sink in the bathroom. [cabinet: noun]
Example
The president's cabinet meets regularly to discuss important issues. [cabinet: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shelf is more commonly used than cabinet in everyday language. Shelf is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cabinet is more specific and often associated with furniture or politics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shelf and cabinet?
Cabinet is typically associated with a formal tone, especially when referring to a group of people appointed by a leader. Shelf is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
