Cool MateCatalog vs Index
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Catalog
Top 2,000 (common)B1
Index
Top 2,000 (common)B2noun
| Catalog | Index | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ˈkæt.əl.ɒɡ//🇺🇸 //ˈkæt.əl.ɒg// | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈɪndeks/","/ˈɪndɪsiːz/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈɪndeks/","/ˈɪndɪsiːz/"]/ |
| Meaning | A list of items, usually in a book or online. | A list of items, usually showing where to find them. |
| Example | The library has a new catalog of available books. | The book's index helps you find specific topics quickly. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | B1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | online catalog, product catalog, library catalog, catalog entry, catalog item | complete, comprehensive, detailed, appear in, be in, consult, give something, list something, card, in a/the index, index to, good, reliable, sensitive, have, use (something as), compile, add something, gain something, increase, in an/the index, on an/the index, a drop in an index, a fall in an index, changes in an index, good, reliable, sensitive, have, use (something as), compile, add something, gain something, increase, in an/the index, on an/the index, a drop in an index, a fall in an index, changes in an index |
| Antonyms | disarray, chaos, randomness | disorder, chaos |
| Common mistakes | Confusing with 'catalogue' which is the British spelling., Using 'catalog' as a verb incorrectly, instead of the noun form., Mistaking it for 'inventory' which can imply a detailed list of stock. | Using 'index' as a verb incorrectly., Confusing 'index' with 'inventory'., Not using 'index' for multiple items. |
| Usage notes | Used when referring to organized lists of items, products, or works. Avoid in very casual conversations. | Use 'index' when discussing organization or reference materials. Avoid in casual conversation where simpler words like 'list' would suffice. |
Frequently asked questions: Catalog vs Index
What's the difference between Catalog and Index?
Catalog: A list of items, usually in a book or online. Index: A list of items, usually showing where to find them.
Are Catalog and Index the same CEFR level?
Catalog: B1, Index: B2 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Catalog and Index interchangeably?
Not always. Catalog and Index are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.