"staircase" vs "stairway"

Question

"staircase" vs "stairway"

Both 'staircase' and 'stairway' are correct terms used to refer to a set of stairs that connect different levels of a building. The choice between them is mainly a matter of personal preference or regional usage.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

You can use 'staircase' to refer to a structure consisting of a series of steps that allow you to move from one floor to another within a building.

Examples:

She tripped and fell down the staircase.
The staircase in the old mansion was grand and elegant.

Alternatives:

flight of stairs
set of stairs
stairs

You can use 'stairway' to refer to a structure consisting of a series of steps that allow you to move from one floor to another within a building.

Examples:

The stairway was narrow and steep, making it difficult to climb.
The emergency exit led to a dark stairway.

Alternatives:

flight of stairs
set of stairs
stairs

Answer 1

staircase

The term 'staircase' is correct and commonly used to describe a set of stairs in a building.

Answer 2

stairway

The term 'stairway' is correct and commonly used to describe a set of stairs in a building.

"staircase" vs "stairway"

staircase

stairway

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