Difference Between
versus

Handbag vs. Purse: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed & Dua Fatima || Published on August 15, 2024
Handbags are larger accessories for carrying personal items, often featuring a variety of designs, while purses are typically smaller, used primarily for holding money and essential cards.
Handbag vs. Purse

Key Differences

Handbags serve as a functional and fashionable accessory, designed to carry a range of personal items from cosmetics to gadgets. Purses, on the other hand, are smaller and focus on holding money, cards, and sometimes keys.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024
The design and style of handbags can vary greatly, offering options from shoulder bags to tote bags, catering to different fashion tastes and needs. Purses are more uniform in their design, primarily crafted to be compact and secure for financial essentials.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024
Handbags are often chosen to complement an outfit or for specific occasions, making them a versatile accessory in a wardrobe. Purses, while also selected for style, prioritize functionality and security for financial items.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024
The term "purse" in American English specifically refers to a small bag for holding currency, distinct from the British English usage where "purse" can mean what Americans refer to as a handbag. This highlights a cultural difference in terminology.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024
Maintenance and care for handbags can vary based on material and design, requiring more attention to detail due to their size and variety of materials. Purses, being smaller and often used more frequently, require durable materials that can withstand daily use.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Primary Use

Carrying a variety of personal items.
Holding money and essential cards.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Size

Larger, varies in size.
Smaller, compact.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Aug 15, 2024

Design Variety

Wide range, including shoulder bags, tote bags, etc.
More uniform, designed for compactness and security.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Occasion

Versatile, chosen for both function and fashion.
Primarily functional, with some consideration for style.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024

Material and Care

Varies, often requires more maintenance.
Durable, designed for frequent use.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT

Handbag and Purse Definitions

Handbag

Can be used for work, shopping, or as a fashion statement.
Her handbag was spacious enough for all her shopping.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 25, 2024

Purse

Focuses on functionality with a touch of style.
Her purse was small but stylish, perfect for the evening.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Feb 25, 2024

Handbag

A large bag carried on the shoulder or in hand for personal items.
She packed her tablet and makeup kit in her handbag.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 25, 2024

Purse

Can be a small part of a larger handbag for organization.
She found her purse inside her larger tote bag.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 25, 2024

Handbag

Made from materials ranging from leather to fabric.
Her canvas handbag was perfect for casual outings.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Feb 25, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT

Purse

Typically designed to be compact and secure.
Her purse had a secure zipper to protect her cards.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Feb 25, 2024

Handbag

Often features multiple compartments for organization.
Her handbag's compartments kept her items well-organized.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Feb 25, 2024

Purse

A small bag for carrying money, cards, and sometimes keys.
She checked her purse for cash before leaving.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 25, 2024

Handbag

Comes in various designs for fashion or practicality.
Her leather handbag matched her shoes perfectly.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Feb 25, 2024

Purse

Often made from durable materials like leather.
Her leather purse had lasted for years.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 25, 2024

Handbag

(mainly Commonwealth) A small bag used by women (or sometimes by men) for carrying various small personal items.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

A small bag for carrying money
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Handbag

A small bag usually made of cloth, leather or a similar imitation material, and often having a strap to permit carrying it by slinging it over a shoulder, used by women to carry money and small personal items or accessories; as, she had to search under the cosmetics, hankies, and medicines in her handbag to find a comb.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

A usually closable small bag or pouch for carrying money.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Handbag

A bag used for carrying money and small personal items or accessories (especially by women);
She reached into her bag and found a comb
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

(US) A handbag (small bag usually used by women for carrying various small personal items)
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Handbag

A purse.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

A usually closable bag used for carrying keys, a wallet, and other personal items, especially by women; a handbag.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Handbag

A piece of small hand luggage.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

Something that resembles a bag or pouch, such as a purse seine.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

A small bag or pouch, the opening of which is made to draw together closely, used to carry money in; by extension, any receptacle for money carried on the person; a wallet; a pocketbook; a portemonnaie.
Who steals my purse steals trash.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Purse

A bag used for carrying money and small personal items or accessories (especially by women);
She reached into her bag and found a comb
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 24, 2024

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Can a purse fit inside a handbag?

Yes, purses are often carried inside handbags for organization.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Do handbags come in one standard size?

No, handbags vary greatly in size, from small clutches to large tote bags.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024

Are purses only for carrying money?

Primarily, yes, but they can also hold small personal items like keys or lip balm.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

How is a purse different from a handbag?

A purse is primarily used for holding money and cards, and is smaller than a handbag.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024

Are handbags considered a fashion accessory?

Yes, handbags are both functional and a statement of personal style.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Aug 15, 2024

Do all handbags have shoulder straps?

No, some handbags are designed to be carried by hand or under the arm without straps.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Aug 15, 2024

What is the main purpose of a handbag?

To carry personal items such as cosmetics, gadgets, and documents.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

What materials are purses typically made from?

Purses are commonly made from durable materials like leather or synthetic fabrics.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

How often should I clean my purse?

It depends on usage, but regularly cleaning your purse can maintain its appearance and longevity.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Can a man use a handbag?

Yes, handbags are for both genders, and many designs cater to men's fashion as well.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024

Is a purse just for women?

No, purses are used by anyone who needs to carry money and cards, regardless of gender.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Can handbags be used for formal occasions?

Yes, there are handbag styles specifically designed for formal wear.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024

Why are handbags more expensive than purses?

Handbags can be larger and made from premium materials, adding to their cost.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Aug 15, 2024

What's the difference between a wallet and a purse?

A wallet is typically used to hold cards and cash and is often a component within a purse or handbag.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Is it necessary to match my purse with my handbag?

While not necessary, coordinating them can enhance your overall look.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Aug 15, 2024

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Dua Fatima
Co-written by
Dua Fatima

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Hydroscopic vs. HygroscopicHydroscopic vs. Hygroscopic
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 14, 2024
Hydroscopic is a common misnomer, often incorrectly used in place of hygroscopic. Hygroscopic refers to substances that absorb moisture from the air.
Stuck vs. StockStuck vs. Stock
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
June 18, 2024
"Stuck" refers to being unable to move or progress, while "stock" primarily denotes inventory or shares in a company, highlighting distinct usage contexts.
Pulley vs. SheavePulley vs. Sheave
Hifza NasirHifza Nasir
April 4, 2024
A pulley is a wheel on an axle designed to support movement and change of direction of a taut cable, while a sheave is the wheel part of a pulley system that specifically interacts with the cable.
Polo Ralph Lauren vs. US Polo AssnPolo Ralph Lauren vs. US Polo Assn
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 21, 2024
Polo Ralph Lauren is a premium fashion brand known for luxury clothing, while US Polo Assn is the official brand of the United States Polo Association, focused on affordable casual wear.
Pycharm Community vs. Pycharm ProPycharm Community vs. Pycharm Pro
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 4, 2024
PyCharm Community is a free, open-source IDE for Python development, while PyCharm Pro is a paid version with additional advanced features like web development support and database tools.
Catholic Bible vs. NIV BibleCatholic Bible vs. NIV Bible
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 11, 2024
The Catholic Bible includes additional books in the Old Testament not found in the NIV Bible; the NIV is a modern English translation.
Natural Rubber vs. Synthetic RubberNatural Rubber vs. Synthetic Rubber
Hifza NasirHifza Nasir
March 8, 2024
Natural rubber, derived from the latex of rubber trees, offers elasticity and resistance to abrasion, while synthetic rubber, produced from petroleum byproducts, provides enhanced chemical and temperature resistance.
Xmas vs. ChristmasXmas vs. Christmas
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 27, 2024
Xmas is an abbreviation of Christmas, often used for convenience, while Christmas refers to the traditional Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Cat6 vs. Cat6ACat6 vs. Cat6A
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 7, 2024
Cat6 cables support speeds up to 1Gbps over 100 meters, whereas Cat6A extends to 10Gbps over the same distance, offering enhanced performance and reliability.
Imax 2D vs. 2DImax 2D vs. 2D
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 14, 2024
Imax 2D offers an immersive, large-scale cinematic experience with enhanced sound and image quality, whereas standard 2D provides a traditional flat-screen viewing without these enhancements.
Single User Operating System vs. Multi User Operating SystemSingle User Operating System vs. Multi User Operating System
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 24, 2024
A Single User Operating System supports one user at a time, whereas a Multi User Operating System allows multiple users to operate simultaneously.
8085 Microprocessor vs. 8086 Microprocessor8085 Microprocessor vs. 8086 Microprocessor
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 1, 2024
The 8085 is an 8-bit microprocessor with a 16-bit address bus, while the 8086 is a 16-bit microprocessor with a 20-bit address bus, marking a significant advancement in processing capabilities.
Broadsheet vs. TabloidBroadsheet vs. Tabloid
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
November 2, 2024
Broadsheet is a large-format newspaper focusing on serious content; Tabloid is a smaller, sensational news-focused paper.
.380 vs. .38 Special.380 vs. .38 Special
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
April 20, 2024
The .380 is a short-range pistol cartridge with less recoil, while the .38 Special is a longer, more powerful revolver cartridge suitable for diverse uses.
Roman Catholic vs. Irish CatholicRoman Catholic vs. Irish Catholic
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 4, 2024
Roman Catholic refers to the global Christian church led by the Pope in Rome, while Irish Catholic denotes Roman Catholics in Ireland, often with unique cultural and historical aspects.
Inox vs. Stainless SteelInox vs. Stainless Steel
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 10, 2024
Inox is a synonym for stainless steel, used mainly in Europe, while stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy containing chromium.
Coke vs. PepsiCoke vs. Pepsi
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 12, 2024
Coke and Pepsi are iconic cola beverages with distinct flavors; Coke has a sharper, vanilla-tinged taste, while Pepsi is sweeter with a citrusy flavor.
Positivism vs. Post-PositivismPositivism vs. Post-Positivism
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
May 26, 2024
Positivism emphasizes observable, empirical evidence and the scientific method, while post-positivism recognizes the limitations of pure objectivity and incorporates subjective perspectives.
NM3 vs. M3NM3 vs. M3
Hifza NasirHifza Nasir
April 19, 2024
NM3 measures gas volume under Normal conditions (0°C and 1.01325 bar), while M3 measures volume under the conditions at which it is measured, without standard adjustment.
Shriners vs. MasonsShriners vs. Masons
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 29, 2024
Shriners are a subgroup within Freemasonry known for charitable work, especially children's hospitals; Masons are members of the larger, older fraternity of Freemasonry with broader goals and activities.
Android TV vs. Tizen TVAndroid TV vs. Tizen TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 26, 2024
Android TV is a smart TV platform powered by Google's Android OS, offering extensive app compatibility, while Tizen TV is Samsung's smart TV OS, known for its smooth interface and integration with Samsung devices.
Candescent vs. IncandescentCandescent vs. Incandescent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
September 22, 2024
Candescent refers to glowing with heat, while incandescent involves light produced by heat. Both indicate forms of luminescence, yet differ in context and use.
Assess vs. AssesAssess vs. Asses
Dua FatimaDua Fatima
April 13, 2024
"Assess" means to evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of something. "Asses" is the plural of "ass," referring to multiple donkeys or used pejoratively for foolish people.
TPU vs. PUTPU vs. PU
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
April 26, 2024
TPU is a type of thermoplastic elastomer with high elasticity and durability, while PU, or polyurethane, is versatile with varying hardness and used in multiple applications.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons