Desk vs Table

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

	Desk	Table
Meaning	A piece of furniture with a flat surface for working or studying.	A flat surface with legs that you can eat on or work at.
CEFR level	A1	A1
Part of speech	noun	noun
Usage notes	Commonly used in everyday situations, both at home and in offices. Not typically used in formal writing unless describing furniture. Avoid using in slang contexts.	The word 'table' can refer to a piece of furniture or to data organized in rows and columns. In formal contexts, be clear about its meaning. Avoid using in slang contexts unless talking about furniture.

Frequently asked questions: Desk vs Table

What's the difference between "Desk" and "Table"?

"Desk" means: A piece of furniture with a flat surface for working or studying. "Table" means: A flat surface with legs that you can eat on or work at.

When should I use "Desk" and "Table"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Desk" and "Table" the same CEFR level?

"Desk" is at A1, "Table" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.