Distinguishing Between Type & Kind

Type vs Kind

Understanding the difference between type and kind can be difficult because it is subtle. Although the words are often confused, it is essential to recognize their distinctions. Both terms refer to a group of something, but their main difference lies in the context they are used. Kind is more often used in everyday language without much thought, while type can be used in the same way, but it is more commonly used in writing due to kind’s colloquial nature.

What does Type mean?

Type is used to refer to a sub-division or category. It is usually followed by the preposition ‘of,’ as in the sentence, “This type of car is very expensive indeed.” In this case, the word type is followed by ‘of’ and used with a singular noun, indicating a sub-category of cars. Type must agree in number with the noun it is used with, meaning if the noun is plural, type should also be plural. Informally, type can describe the category of people one finds attractive or likes, as in “She is not my type. She is too serious.”

What does Kind mean?

Kind is used to mean ‘sort,’ as in the sentences, “What kind of a person you are!” and “This kind of book is good to read.” The word kind is used in the sense of ‘sort’ in both examples. Like type, kind must also agree in number with the noun it is used with. If the noun is plural, kind should be plural as well. Kind can sometimes be used vaguely, as in “Her eyes are kind of bluish-black” or “This movie is kind of a thriller.”

Key Takeaways

• Type refers to a sub-division or category, while kind means ‘sort.’
• Both type and kind must agree in number with the noun they are used with.
• Type is more formal than kind and is more commonly used in writing, while kind is more frequently used in speech and can sometimes be used vaguely.