What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
upholstery
Example
The upholstery on the sofa was worn and needed to be replaced. [upholstery: noun]
Example
She learned how to do upholstery from her grandfather, who was a skilled craftsman. [upholstery: noun]
furnishing
Example
The furnishing in the living room was modern and minimalist. [furnishing: noun]
Example
She spent the weekend furnishing her new apartment with secondhand furniture and thrift store finds. [furnishing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Furnishing is more commonly used than upholstery in everyday language. Furnishing is a versatile term that can be used in a variety of contexts, while upholstery is more specialized and typically used in the context of furniture repair and restoration.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between upholstery and furnishing?
Both upholstery and furnishing can be used in formal or informal contexts, but upholstery may be considered more technical and specialized, while furnishing is more general and accessible to a wider audience.
