What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swatch
Example
The interior designer showed us a swatch of the fabric she planned to use for the curtains. [swatch: noun]
Example
I picked up a swatch of the paint color I liked from the hardware store. [swatch: noun]
Example
The company sent us a swatch of their new product for us to test before purchasing. [swatch: noun]
sample
Example
The lab technician took a sample of my blood for testing. [sample: noun]
Example
The survey company sent out a sample of their new product to potential customers for feedback. [sample: noun]
Example
The ice cream shop was giving out samples of their new flavor for free. [samples: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sample is more commonly used than swatch in everyday language. Sample is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while swatch is less common and often associated with fashion or design.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between swatch and sample?
Both swatch and sample are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
