Results vs Scores
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Results
Top 1,000 (very common)
Scores
Top 1,000 (very common)
| Results | Scores | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //rɪˈzʌlts//🇺🇸 //rɪˈzʌlts// | 🇬🇧 //skɔːrz//🇺🇸 //skɔrz// |
| Meaning | The outcomes or effects of something. | The points earned in a game or test. |
| Example | The results of the experiment were surprising. | She received the highest scores in the class. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| Collocations | study results, test results, research results, election results, final results | test scores, high scores, final scores, game scores, average scores |
| Antonyms | - | loses, fails, misses |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'results' with 'resolves' or 'resolutions'., Using 'result' in plural contexts where 'results' is not appropriate., Mixing up the noun 'results' with the verb 'result'. | Confusing 'score' as a singular noun with 'scores' as a plural verb., Using 'score' instead of 'scores' when referring to multiple results., Not recognizing 'scores' can refer to both games and tests. |
| Usage notes | Used in both formal and informal contexts. Common in scientific, academic, and business discussions. Avoid using 'results' in casual conversation unless discussing competitions or assessments. | Use 'scores' when referring to achievements in games, tests, or assessments. It's suitable for both written and spoken contexts. |
See it in real clips
Frequently asked questions: Results vs Scores
What's the difference between Results and Scores?
Results: The outcomes or effects of something. Scores: The points earned in a game or test.
Can you show an example of each?
Results: The results of the experiment were surprising. Scores: She received the highest scores in the class.
Can I use Results and Scores interchangeably?
Not always. Results and Scores 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.