Stationary vs Stationery

What is the difference?

Stationary (Adjective)

Definition:

The term stationary means not moving or not intended to be moved.

Usage:

Stationary is a word that is applied to something affixed and is not capable of movement. For example, “The car remained stationary at the traffic light” suggests that the car is not moving. It can also be used in a generalized manner to refer to anything that remains in the same place or position, such as, “He has a very stationary lifestyle.

Examples:

The bicycle remained stationary while she adjusted the seat.
He was sitting stationary, waiting for the bus.
The statue stood stationary in the garden for years.

Synonyms:

Immobile
Motionless
Still
Fixed
Static

Stationery (Noun)

Definition:

“Stationery” refers to writing materials, including paper, envelopes, pens, and other office supplies.

Usage:

Stationery is used to denote materials used for writing or office tasks. For instance, “She bought new stationery for her office” means she purchased writing supplies. It encompasses items like notebooks, letterheads, and other paper products used for correspondence and office work.

Examples:

She loves collecting fancy stationery for her correspondence.
This store sells high-quality stationery for students and professionals.
You will see the company’s logo printed on all their stationery.

Synonyms:

Writing Materials
Office Supplies
Paper Products

Key Differences:

The major difference between the two words “stationary” and “stationery” is the definitions and contexts in which they are used.

“Stationary” is an adjective that means that the subject matter is not moving or is incapable of moving or is fixed or permanently located in a fixed position.

Nevertheless, “stationery” is a noun that means the materials needed for writing, and office materials mostly deal with writing things.