Stationery or Stationary - Common Grammar Mistake

'Stationery' and 'stationary' are commonly confused words in English grammar. Understanding the difference between 'stationery' and 'stationary' is important to use them correctly in written and spoken English.

'Stationery' refers to writing materials and office supplies, such as paper, pens, pencils, and envelopes.

'Stationary' means not moving or not changing position. It is the opposite of 'mobile' or 'moving'.

Let's take a closer look at the meanings and usage of 'stationery' and 'stationary'.

'Stationery''Stationary'
The word 'stationery' refers to writing materials and office supplies.The word 'stationary' means not moving or not changing position.
  • I need to buy some stationery for my office.
  • She loves to collect cute stationery.
  • The car was stationary at the traffic light.
  • He stood stationary for hours, waiting for the bus.

To remember the difference between 'stationery' and 'stationary', it can be helpful to remember that 'stationery' has an 'e' in it, which stands for 'envelopes' and 'office supplies', while 'stationary' has an 'a' in it, which stands for 'not moving'.

Here are some examples of correct usage:

  • I need to buy some stationery for my new job.
  • The bicycle was stationary in the garage for months.
  • She loves to collect cute stationery for her scrapbooking hobby.
  • The train was stationary on the tracks, waiting for the signal to change.

Remembering the correct usage of 'stationery' and 'stationary' will improve your grammar and communication skills.