What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stamps
Example
I need to buy some stamps to mail this letter. [stamps: noun]
Example
She stamped her initials on the document to show it was approved. [stamped: verb]
Example
The envelope had a stamp of a flower on it. [stamp: singular noun]
seal
Example
He used a seal to close the envelope and keep its contents private. [seal: noun]
Example
The seal swam gracefully through the water. [seal: noun]
Example
She sealed the jar tightly to keep the food fresh. [sealed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stamps are more commonly used than seals in everyday language. Stamps are a common item used for mailing letters or packages, while seals are less frequently used for official documents or personal correspondence.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stamps and seal?
Seals are typically associated with a formal and traditional tone, while stamps can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context.