What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tatami
Example
I love the feel of tatami under my feet when I practice yoga. [tatami: noun]
Example
The dojo has a large tatami mat where we practice martial arts. [tatami: noun]
carpet
Example
I spilled coffee on the carpet and had to clean it up quickly. [carpet: noun]
Example
The hotel room had plush carpeting that felt great under my feet. [carpeting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carpet is more commonly used than tatami in everyday language. Carpet is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tatami is less common and refers to a specific type of flooring material with a traditional Japanese origin.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tatami and carpet?
While tatami is typically associated with a formal and traditional tone, carpet is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.