The words Type and Kind are very common words in English speeches and writings. Both of the words are very commonly used on daily basis for communication purpose. Both of the words seem to be similar but it is not so. Both the words Kind and Type have different meaning and should be used wisely to keep our sentence meaningful. Both words use the preposition ‘of’ after them to have a complete and meaningful sentence.
Let’s get familiar with the word Kind :
The word ‘Kind’ is mainly used to express the sense of sort. The use of preposition ‘of’ after the word ‘kind’ tells us that the sentence has complete meaning. Kind refers to a group trait that is shared internally by the members. Its root meaning is “race” or “offspring”. The word ‘kind’ is preferred in speeches than in writings.
For example- “What kind of tablet is this?”.
In the above sentence the word kind has a sense of sort in it. Given sentence can also be written as “What sort of laptop is this?”.
NOTE: If the noun used in the sentence is in singular form then the word ‘kind’ should also be in singular form and vice versa.
Let’s get familiar with the word Type :
The word ‘Type’ is used to show the category or sub-division within a bigger or complete thing. The use of preposition ‘of’ after the word ‘kind’ tells us that the sentence has complete meaning. Type refers to clearly distinct and essential traits shared by members of a group. Its root meaning is “impression”. The word ‘type’ is preferred in writing than in speeches.
For example- “These types of cars are very expensive”.
The above sentence clearly refers to the sub-category of cars available in the market.
NOTE: If the noun used in the sentence is in singular form then the word ‘type’ should also be in singular form and vice versa.
Differences between Kind and Type :
| Kind | Type |
| Kind is used to express sense of sort | Type is used to show category or sub-division |
| The word ‘kind’ is less formal than ‘type’ | ‘Type’ is more formal than ‘kind’ |
| It is preferred more in speeches than in writing | It is preferred more in writing than in speeches |
| Ex- “What kind of machine is this?” | Ex-“These types of televisions are in great demand” |