Committee vs Council

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 CommitteeCouncil
MeaningA group of people who work together to make decisions.A group of people who meet to make decisions or advice on a topic.
Register-formal
CEFR levelB2B2
Part of speechnounnoun
Usage notesUsed in formal and professional contexts, like organizations or governments. Avoid in casual conversations.Used in formal contexts, often to describe a group that makes decisions, like a city council. Avoid in casual conversations.

Frequently asked questions: Committee vs Council

What's the difference between "Committee" and "Council"?

"Committee" means: A group of people who work together to make decisions. "Council" means: A group of people who meet to make decisions or advice on a topic.

When should I use "Committee" and "Council"?

"Council" is formal.

Are "Committee" and "Council" the same CEFR level?

"Committee" is at B2, "Council" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.

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