What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
square
Example
The room was a perfect square, with each side measuring 10 feet. [square: adjective]
Example
The park had a large square where people could gather for events. [square: noun]
Example
To find the area of a square, you need to multiply the length of one side by itself. [square: verb]
rectangle
Example
The painting was framed in a beautiful rectangle made of cherry wood. [rectangle: noun]
Example
The classroom was a long rectangle, with rows of desks stretching from one end to the other. [rectangle: adjective]
Example
To find the area of a rectangle, you need to multiply the length by the width. [rectangle: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rectangle is more commonly used than square in everyday language. Rectangles are more versatile and can be found in various objects and spaces, while squares are more specific and limited to objects or spaces that are equal in length and width.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between square and rectangle?
Both square and rectangle are formal terms used in geometry and mathematics. However, rectangle is more versatile and can be used in everyday language, while square is more specific and less commonly used outside of mathematical contexts.