What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tray
Example
The waiter brought a tray of drinks to our table. [tray: noun]
Example
She organized her jewelry on a small tray on her dresser. [tray: noun]
Example
The caterer used a silver tray to display the hors d'oeuvres. [tray: noun]
plate
Example
He served the pancakes on a plate with syrup. [plate: noun]
Example
The chef presented the dish on a decorative plate. [plate: noun]
Example
The electrician installed the outlet plate on the wall. [plate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Plate is more commonly used than tray in everyday language. Plate is a common household item used for serving food during meals, while tray is less common and has a wider range of uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tray and plate?
Both tray and plate can be used in formal and informal contexts, but plate is more commonly associated with formal dining settings, while tray is more versatile and can be used in various settings and contexts.
