Handbag vs. purse: what’s the difference?
The short answer
In British English, a purse is a small case for coins and cards, and a handbag is the larger bag that a purse might go in. In American English, purse usually means the larger bag, the same thing as a handbag; the small case for money is a wallet or a coin purse.
What they have in common
Both terms refer to bags used for carrying personal items. Both are commonly used by women. Both can be made from a variety of materials like canvas or fabric.
Examples
handbag
- She placed her phone and keys in her handbag before going out.
- The designer handbag was more expensive than her entire outfit.
- She organized her belongings neatly within the compartments of her handbag.
purse
- She searched her purse for some loose change to pay for the parking meter.
- In the midst of the crowd, she tightened her grip on her purse.
- She carries a small purse for cash and cards inside her larger bag.
Which one is more common?
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