What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stanchion
Example
The crowd was held back by metal stanchions during the parade. [stanchions: noun]
Example
The boat was secured to the dock with stanchions and ropes. [stanchions: plural noun]
Example
The stanchions were placed to support the roof of the building. [stanchions: plural noun]
column
Example
The ancient temple had rows of tall columns supporting the roof. [columns: plural noun]
Example
The spreadsheet had a column for each month of the year. [column: singular noun]
Example
I always read the advice column in the newspaper. [column: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Column is more commonly used than stanchion in everyday language. Column has a wider range of applications, from architecture to journalism, while stanchion is more limited in its usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between stanchion and column?
Column is generally considered more formal than stanchion. Column is often used in academic or professional contexts, while stanchion is more commonly used in casual or outdoor settings.
