What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shoe
Example
I need to buy a new pair of shoes for work. [shoes: noun]
Example
She slipped off her shoe and rubbed her sore foot. [shoe: noun]
Example
He always wears stylish shoes with his suits. [shoes: noun]
footwear
Example
The store sells a wide variety of footwear for men, women, and children. [footwear: noun]
Example
She works in the footwear industry, designing and manufacturing shoes. [footwear: noun]
Example
Safety footwear is required for workers in certain industries to protect their feet from hazards. [footwear: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shoe is a more common term than footwear in everyday language, as it is more specific and easier to use in casual conversation. However, footwear is a more formal term that is commonly used in the footwear industry and in formal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between shoe and footwear?
Footwear is a more formal term than shoe, which is more casual and commonly used in everyday conversation. While shoe can be used in both formal and informal contexts, footwear is typically reserved for more formal situations.
