E-mail vs. Email: What is the Difference?

Are you confused about when to use “E-mail” and “Email”? Many English learners find it tricky to know the difference. In this reference, we’ll explore the distinction between “E-mail” and “Email” to help you use these terms correctly.

E-Mail or Email: Which to Use?

• E-Mail: Traditionally hyphenated, less common in modern usage.
• Email: More widely accepted, especially in contemporary communication.

E-Mail vs. Email: The Definition

What Does E-Mail Mean?

E-mail, short for “electronic mail,” refers to the transmission of messages and data between computer users over a network. It allows individuals to send and receive digital messages, documents, and files using electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, or tablets. E-mail typically involves the use of an e-mail address, composed of a username and a domain name, to send and receive messages.

What Does Email Mean?

Email evolved from ‘e-mail’ as language and digital communication customs changed. Its usage without the hyphen reflects a streamlined approach to writing and a natural development in English lexicon.

E-Mail vs. Email: Usage

• Former Preference: Businesses and publications preferred e-mail due to style guidelines.
• Current Usage: Email is more commonly used in everyday language, literature, and emails themselves.

Tips to Remember the Differences

• Remember e-mail as the elder, formal variant that shows its “electronic” roots.
• Think of email as the modern, efficient evolution that you’re likely to encounter more often.

E-Mail vs. Email: Examples

Example Sentences Using E-Mail

• When you first set up your account, the confirmation was sent to your e-mail.
• You might receive important company updates through your e-mail, so it’s crucial to check it regularly.
• I will send you the details via e-mail.
• Please check your e-mail for the meeting agenda.
• She prefers to communicate with her clients via e-mail.
• The company has a strict policy regarding the use of e-mail for official correspondence.

Example Sentences Using Email

• You can send files quickly by attaching them to an email.
• Make sure to check your spam folder, as sometimes an email you’re waiting for could end up there.
• I received an important email from my boss this morning.
• Please remember to check your email regularly for updates and announcements.
• Sending a quick email is a convenient way to communicate with colleagues.
• Did you receive the email I sent you yesterday?

Related Confused Words

E-mail vs. E-zine

The main difference between an e-mail and an e-zine lies in their format and content.

An e-mail is a direct electronic message sent to an individual or a group of people, typically for personal or business communication.

An e-zine, short for electronic magazine, is a digital publication distributed via e-mail or the internet and often contains articles, images, and other multimedia content on specific topics of interest.

Email vs. Ebook

Email and ebook are both digital forms of communication, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.

An email is a short, often informal message sent electronically from one person to another or to a group of recipients. It is typically used for quick communication, such as sending messages, documents, or images. Emails are often used for business communication, personal correspondence, or marketing purposes. They are usually concise and to the point, with a focus on immediate communication.

An ebook is a digital book that can be read on electronic devices such as e-readers, tablets, or smartphones. Ebooks can contain a wide range of content, including novels, textbooks, research papers, and reference materials. They are designed for longer-form reading and often include features such as bookmarks, annotations, and search functions. Ebooks can be purchased, downloaded, and stored for offline reading, making them convenient for accessing a large amount of content in a portable format.