Cool MatePants vs Trousers
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Pants | Trousers | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Clothing worn on the lower part of the body, covering the legs. | Clothing worn on the lower part of the body that covers both legs. |
| CEFR level | A2 | A1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Use 'pants' in most contexts when referring to lower body clothing. Avoid in very formal situations; in such cases, 'trousers' may be preferred. | Used in both formal and informal settings. In American English, 'pants' is more common. 'Trousers' might be used in British English. |
Frequently asked questions: Pants vs Trousers
What's the difference between "Pants" and "Trousers"?
"Pants" means: Clothing worn on the lower part of the body, covering the legs. "Trousers" means: Clothing worn on the lower part of the body that covers both legs.
When should I use "Pants" and "Trousers"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Pants" and "Trousers" the same CEFR level?
"Pants" is at A2, "Trousers" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.