"Phone" vs "Tel."

Question

"Phone" vs "Tel."

Both "tel." and "phone" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Tel." is an abbreviation for telephone and is commonly used in written forms like business cards or directories. On the other hand, "phone" is the full word and is used in everyday spoken and written English.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Use "phone" in everyday spoken and written English to refer to a telephone or a device used for communication.

Examples:

I'll call you on the phone later.
Do you have her phone number?

Alternatives:

telephone
cell phone
landline
mobile phone
smartphone

Use "tel." as an abbreviation for telephone in written forms like business cards, directories, or contact information.

Examples:

Please contact us at tel. 123-456-7890.
His tel. number is 555-1234.

Alternatives:

telephone
phone number
contact number
landline
cell phone

Answer 1

Phone

The word "phone" is correct and commonly used in everyday spoken and written English.

Answer 2

Tel.

This abbreviation for telephone is correct and commonly used in written forms.

"Phone" vs "Tel."

Phone

Tel.

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