Rug vs. carpet: what’s the difference?
The short answer
A rug typically covers a specific area and is smaller, while a carpet often refers to wall-to-wall floor covering.
What they have in common
Both rug and carpet refer to floor coverings.
Examples
rug
- She placed a colorful rug in the center of the room.
- The Persian rug added character to the entryway.
carpet
- They decided to install a new carpet in the living room.
- The hotel hallway was lined with plush carpeting.
Which one is more common?

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