Difference Between Sofa And Couch

by Devna Tiwari | February 27, 2024 | 4 mins read

Difference between sofa and couch

Do you know the difference between a sofa and a couch? Well, this blog will tell you everything you need to know about it. Read on to find out!

A sofa is the centrepiece of any living room and is something every homeowner wants to get right. There is nothing more inviting than the sight of a plush and comfortable sofa when you come back home after a long day of work.

A sofa to put your tired feet up or a single seat recliner for your aching back after a long drive back home. It’s where you spend time with your family watching TV or movies and build memories and connections. 

However, often homeowners find themselves at loggerhead when it comes to understanding the difference between a sofa and couch.

These days the terms are used interchangeably. Most people think they are one and the same but historically speaking there is a difference and unique story for each.

The word sofa comes from the Arabic word Suffa believed to have entered the European vocabulary through Turkey. It basically means a long bench made of wood, stone or brick covered with fabric and cushions. 
The word Couche is French which means to “lie down”. A couch is much smaller than a sofa built without any arm rests.

Sofa couch - check out difference between sofa and couch

Defining The Two

However in present times sofas and couches have often been mistaken for the other as the differences between them are almost indistinguishable. You will also see a preference for either term in certain demographics. In countries like India or those with British influence people used the word ‘sofa’. While in America both the terms are used.

Another difference between the two is that couches are generally considered a casual piece of furniture and sofas more formal. Comfort and functionality are what define a couch while sofas are used to make a style statement in your living room but in the lobby of a hotel or to seat judges of a reality show.

But this is purely subjective because we believe a well designed couch can be just as beautiful to look at as a sofa. A well built sofa can be just as comfortable as any couch without letting it’s form get in the way of its functionality.

As such the answer to the question – “What is the difference between a sofa and a couch?” – becomes a choice of what you prefer to call it.

A sofa or couch is a large investment that will be part of your living room for many years to come. Hence getting a good sofa or couch with high-quality materials and sturdy design is what should be on the top of the list. A good sofa or couch should be comfortable, cosy and look good in your living room. It must work well with the design of your interiors.

Also, look into ease of maintenance and warranties that are offered by top brands.

At the end of the day, whether you choose a sofa or couch you should be able to rest your weary body without any care in the world.

Sofa vs couch - what is the difference between a sofa and a couch

And it’s a wrap! We hope this helps find you the answer to the biggest question ever!

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Now that you know everything you must know about sofa or couch, we are certain that you will be able to make a wise choice and pick the right one for your living room to chill and create memories with your loved ones!

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Devna Tiwari is a content writer at Design Cafe's home interiors blog.

Devna Tiwari

Devna Tiwari is a content writer at DesignCafe and comes with four years of experience. She walks undeterred, heads up against all odds and sits down to write about them. When she is not out there capturing every moment to permanence or trying out new restaurants, she is busy planning her next voyage. She is also the author of the book The Surrogate Girlfriend.

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