What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sweepstake
Example
I entered the sweepstake at the mall and won a gift card. [sweepstake: noun]
Example
The company is holding a sweepstake to promote their new product. [sweepstake: noun]
contest
Example
She won first place in the baking contest with her delicious cake. [contest: noun]
Example
We are going to have a dance contest at the party. [contest: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sweepstake and contest are both commonly used in everyday language, but sweepstake is more commonly associated with games of chance, while contest is more commonly associated with competitions based on skill or ability.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sweepstake and contest?
Both sweepstake and contest can be used in formal and informal contexts, but contest may be more versatile due to its association with various types of competitions and events.