Stationery vs. Stationary- a Homophone
One of the most annoying things about the English language is that often words sound the same, but they have completely different meanings (these are called homophones). Stationery and stationary are a prime example of this. There is a big difference between stationery (notebooks and paper-based loveliness) and stationary (not moving).
Stationery: a Definition
Stationery is defined as writing supplies and other office materials, tools needed for writing such as pens, paper, notebooks, pencils, paperclips, diaries and envelopes.
Stationary: a Definition
Stationary is what something is when it is not moving. It is defined as 'fixed in a station, course, or mode', or 'immobile or unchanging'. E.G. Cars are stationary when they stop at red lights.
An Easy Way to Remember Whether it's Stationery or Stationary
Stationery: E is for Envelope
Stationary: A is for Ain't Moving.
Stationery vs Stationary: It's Caught Us All Out
Way back in 2008 when we first set up the business, I was so excited that I went out and ordered 2000 business cards, but I'd accidentally put "Stationary" instead of "Stationery". I still cringe at that cock-up now. (And yes, I was an English teacher briefly.)
So there you go- the difference between stationery and stationary, an easy trick to remember which is which, and one of my most embarrassing business fails. Hopefully you'll never forget now!
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