What's The Difference Between A Couch And A Sofa?

Though we wouldn’t recommend correcting people on their choice of term.

In America, most people consider the words "couch" and "sofa" interchangeable. After all, they're both long, upholstered pieces of furniture intended for sitting and lounging. Aren't they? It may depend on how you use the room and whether it’s a more formal room for entertaining or a family room where everyone is welcome to put their feet up. Whatever room you’re decorating, here’s the difference between a couch and a sofa.

What's the Difference?

Historically speaking, a couch and a sofa are two different things. The term "couch," believed to be derived from the French word "couche," is used to describe "a piece of furniture with no arms used for lying." On the other hand, Merriam-Webster defines a "sofa" as "a long, upholstered seat usually with arms and a back, and often convertible into a bed."

In the old days, the difference between a couch and a sofa seemed to be arms—or lack thereof, meaning "sofa" is technically the correct term.

Does the Name Matter?

Luckily, the only people who really seem to care are designers and other industry professionals, where "sofa" is standard. Colloquially, you're in the clear to use whichever term suits you best.

"They're readily interchangeable, but I call everything a sofa because I've been in the industry for so long," Skip Rumley, the vice president of design and creative direction at Heritage Home Group, told Elle Decor. "But if I saw a big, fluffy, overstuffed piece of furniture that could recline and was in, say, a man cave, that's a couch."

Rumley's right. Couch, in general, is considered a more casual term—one you'd use when yelling at an adolescent to get up off of one or where you go to relax and binge the latest season of Sweet Magnolias. Sofa, on the other hand, strikes a more refined tone. You can picture a dignified lady inviting you to join her for tea on one. If you grew up with a formal living room, it probably had a more sophisticated sofa that was only used for special occasions.

"There's an ounce of pretense when people correct you and say, it's not a couch, it's a sofa," Rumley concluded. "I think that's silly. Call it what you want, but at the end of the day, a sofa may just be a more formal idea of a couch."

What's Right for Your Space?

Nowadays, many homes have one room that’s dedicated to many purposes. It’s the space where the family unwinds, but also the room where you entertain guests. As you choose a piece, think about how it will be used in your space. You may want a really cushy sectional or couch for afternoon napping or so the whole family can enjoy movie night. A tailored, firmer sofa may be what you’re after if the room doesn’t have a TV and will be used more for sitting. Either way, there is no wrong choice, and when you’re shopping for furniture, specialists will guide you in the right direction. Get what fits your lifestyle.

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