Stationary vs. Stationery: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Stationary refers to being still or not moving, while stationery relates to writing materials like paper, pens, and envelopes.
Key Differences
Stationary is an adjective describing something that is not moving or is fixed in one place. For example, a stationary bicycle remains in one position while being used. Conversely, stationery refers to writing materials, such as paper, envelopes, and pens. People purchase stationery for writing letters or for office supplies.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
The term stationary is often used in contexts involving motion or transportation, indicating the absence of movement. For instance, a car remains stationary at a red light. Stationery, however, is typically discussed in the context of office supplies, education, or personal writing. A student might buy stationery for school projects.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
The word stationary comes from the Latin 'stationarius,' meaning standing still. Its spelling is distinct with an 'a,' relating to the word 'stand.' Stationery, with an 'e,' derives from the term 'stationer,' referring to a bookseller or publisher, and by extension, to the products sold.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
In everyday language, when someone says they are stationary, they mean they are not moving from their spot. If someone mentions they need to buy stationery, they are referring to the purchase of writing supplies.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
A common error is confusing the spellings of these two words due to their similar pronunciation. Remembering that stationery with an 'e' is related to envelopes can help distinguish these terms.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Not moving or being still
Materials for writing, like paper and pens
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Dec 11, 2023
Context
Used in describing motion or lack thereof
Associated with writing and office supplies
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Dec 11, 2023
Etymology
Derived from 'stationarius,' meaning standing still
Comes from 'stationer,' a bookseller
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Example Usage
"The car was stationary at the light."
"I bought some stationery for my office."
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Dec 11, 2023
Spelling Mnemonic
Stationary with an 'a' for 'at a standstill'
Stationery with an 'e' for 'envelopes'
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Dec 11, 2023
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Stationary and Stationery Definitions
Stationary
Fixed in one position; not capable of being moved.
The sculpture is stationary in the museum.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
Writing and other office materials.
She has a collection of colorful stationery.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Not progressing or advancing in development.
The project’s status has been stationary for weeks.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
Specialized paper for invitations and announcements.
They chose elegant stationery for their wedding invitations.
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Dec 01, 2023
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Stationery
Paper materials used for writing or printing.
We ordered custom stationery for the event.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
Business supplies like paper, envelopes, and pens.
Our office regularly restocks its stationery.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
Materials used for personal or business correspondence.
He prefers writing letters on quality stationery.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Not moving.
The train remained stationary for a few moments, before lurching forward along the track.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
Writing materials, envelopes, office materials.
When the school year finished, he put all of his stationery away in the loft, as he would have no need for pencils and exercise books during the holidays.
We can pick up more paper and pens at the stationery store.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
The articles usually sold by stationers, as paper, pens, ink, quills, blank books, etc.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
One who, or that which, is stationary, such as a planet when apparently it has neither progressive nor retrograde motion.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationery
Paper cut to an appropriate size for writing letters; usually with matching envelopes
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Not moving; not appearing to move; stable; fixed.
Charles Wesley, who is a more stationary man, does not believe the story.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Not improving or getting worse; not growing wiser, greater, better, more excellent, or the contrary.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Appearing to be at rest, because moving in the line of vision; not progressive or retrograde, as a planet.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
One who, or that which, is stationary, as a planet when apparently it has neither progressive nor retrograde motion.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Standing still;
The car remained stationary with the engine running
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Not moving or motionless.
The train remained stationary for an hour.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Unchanging in condition or position.
His expression was stationary despite the news.
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Dec 01, 2023
Stationary
Used to describe a non-moving exercise equipment.
She exercises daily on a stationary bike.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What does stationary mean?
Refers to something not moving or fixed in place.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
How do you remember the difference in spelling?
Stationary with an 'a' is about standing still, stationery with an 'e' is about envelopes and writing.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Is a stationary bike truly stationary?
Yes, it stays in one place while in use.
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Dec 11, 2023
Can stationery include digital products?
Traditionally no, it’s mostly physical writing materials.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
In what context is stationary commonly used?
In describing objects or people that are not in motion.
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Dec 11, 2023
Are there eco-friendly stationery options?
Yes, like recycled paper products.
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Dec 11, 2023
Is being stationary good in traffic?
Depends on the context, like safety or waiting.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Is stationery only paper products?
Mostly, but it can include other writing supplies.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Are stationery designs important for businesses?
Yes, for branding and professional appearance.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Where do you buy stationery?
At office supply stores, bookstores, or online.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Is stationary used in sports?
Yes, in descriptions of non-moving positions.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Does stationary apply to technology?
Yes, like stationary cameras or sensors.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila 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.
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