Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Tony 1963]

Hi,

As verbs, can you tell me the differences between "pack" and "package"?

Thanks.

Tony

[redset]

Take a look at a dictionary for a big list of differences, but as a verb they can usually be used interchangeably, except that package always takes an object (you can't say 'I'm packaging'). Package implies the outside - what it's wrapped in, how it's presented, the 'packaging'. Pack implies the inside, how it's arranged internally and what's inside. 'Nice packaging' means you like how it looks on the outside, 'nice packing' means you're impressed with how space has been used inside - in fact 'nice packing' would probably mean you're talking about how someone was able to fit all their clothes into a suitcase . Packages are mailed or delivered, packs contain materials and equipment (information packs, medical packs, backpacks).

Obviously a lot of that deals with the noun forms, but they are related to the verbs of course.

[Tony 1963]

Thanks a lot, Redset!