What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
totals
Example
The totals for the month's expenses were higher than expected. [totals: noun]
Example
If you add up the individual scores, the totals come to 100. [totals: noun]
Example
She totaled the amount spent on groceries for the week. [totaled: past tense verb]
whole
Example
The whole cake was eaten by the guests. [whole: adjective]
Example
I need the whole day to finish this project. [whole: adjective]
Example
He ate the whole pizza by himself. [whole: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whole is more commonly used than totals in everyday language. Whole is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while totals have a more specific and technical connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between totals and whole?
Totals are more commonly used in formal contexts, such as financial reports or academic papers, while whole is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
