While the terms “sofa” and “couch” are often used interchangeably, there are subtle distinctions between the two that shouldn’t be overlooked. While they may bear similarities, they are not entirely synonymous.
Avoid the mistake of assuming they are identical. Once you understand the unique characteristics that define each piece, you’ll never confuse one for the other again.
What’s The Difference Between Couch and Sofa?
While it is commonly perceived that a “couch” is more casual than a “sofa,” only a few individuals, including designers, truly grasp the distinction between the two.
Is a couch truly more laid-back than a sofa? Does it have a different appearance? Does it offer a different feel?
And if you were to visit a showroom and request a couch, would you be met with disdain for not using the term “sofa”?
Perhaps, but our expert sources inform us that those individuals would be impolite.
The reason for this is that there is little discernible difference between them, but the nuances that do exist are worth noting, if not for practical purposes, then at least for the sake of having an additional intriguing fact in your conversational repertoire.
The Definition of Couch
This meaning aligns with the way the term is commonly used, often implying a more casual connotation compared to “sofa.”
“They can be used interchangeably, but personally, I refer to all of them as sofas because of my extensive experience in the industry,” remarked Skip Rumley, Vice President of Design and Creative Direction at Heritage Home Group.
“However, if I were to encounter a large, plush, overstuffed piece of furniture that reclines and is located in, let’s say, a man cave, that’s what I would consider a couch,” he added.
According to the eBay selling guide, which helps sellers differentiate between sofas and couches, it is also suggested that the term “couch” may have originated from the French word “couche,” which refers to a furniture piece without arms used for lying down (although it is rare to find armless sofas today).
“A couch is something you lounge on, curl up on, and allow your dog to rest on,” explains Rumley.
“A couch is where someone crashes when they stay over. Your kids are allowed on it, and you can even enjoy some chips while sitting on a couch.”
Essentially, both pets and kids tend to prefer sofas over couches, as they provide a more relaxed and informal seating option.
The Definition of Sofa
As mentioned in the eBay selling guide, the term “sofa” has its origins in the Arabic word “suffah,” which refers to a wooden bench covered with cushions and blankets. In other words, not the most ideal choice for curling up and sleeping.
However, “sofa” is the commonly used term in the market.
“In this industry, I rarely hear people using the term ‘couch’,” stated Dolley Levan Frearson, owner and sofa specialist at High Fashion Home.
“If someone does use it, it’s usually from individuals who are not familiar with home decor. But I wasn’t aware that there was actually a difference. I always thought ‘couch’ was just a more casual term for a sofa.”
According to eBay, couches are often associated with hosting and formal occasions. They generally have a seating capacity of four or more people, in contrast to sofas, which typically seat two to three individuals. This makes couches more suitable for homeowners who frequently entertain guests.
However, in the grand scheme of things, this distinction is not something to be overly concerned about.
“There’s a hint of pretentiousness when people correct you and say, ‘It’s not a couch, it’s a sofa’,” remarks Rumley.
“I find that silly. Call it whatever you like, but ultimately, a sofa may simply represent a more formal concept of a couch.”
In Summary
While it is important to note that the following statements are broad generalizations, they can help simplify the understanding for the average consumer. However, it’s worth mentioning that these generalizations come with a few additional assumptions:
COUCH
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SOFA
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