Lab vs Laboratory

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

 LabLaboratory
MeaningA place where scientific experiments are done.A special room for scientific experiments.
CEFR levelA2B1
Part of speechnounnoun
Usage notesUse 'lab' in both formal and informal contexts; suitable for academic and casual conversations. Don't use it when referring to non-scientific places.Used in scientific and educational contexts. Not appropriate for casual conversations unless referring to science. Can also refer to the place where medical tests are done.

Frequently asked questions: Lab vs Laboratory

What's the difference between "Lab" and "Laboratory"?

"Lab" means: A place where scientific experiments are done. "Laboratory" means: A special room for scientific experiments.

When should I use "Lab" and "Laboratory"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Lab" and "Laboratory" the same CEFR level?

"Lab" is at A2, "Laboratory" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.