Decorate vs. Decorative

Attribute	Decorate	Decorative
Definition	To add beauty or ornamentation to something	Relating to decoration or beauty
Function	To enhance the appearance of something	To serve as an adornment or embellishment
Usage	Verb	Adjective
Examples	Decorate the Christmas tree with lights and ornaments	The decorative pillows added a pop of color to the room

Definition

Decorate and decorative are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Decorate is a verb that means to add something to make something else more attractive or festive. For example, you might decorate a Christmas tree with ornaments and lights. On the other hand, decorative is an adjective that describes something as serving to make something else more attractive or festive. For example, you might have decorative pillows on your couch to add a pop of color to the room.

Function

When it comes to function, decorate is an action that involves physically adding something to enhance the appearance of an object or space. This could involve painting a wall, hanging up curtains, or arranging furniture in a room. Decorative, on the other hand, is more about the aesthetic quality of an object or space. Something that is decorative is meant to be visually appealing and add to the overall design or style of a room.

Usage

Decorate is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts. You can decorate a cake with frosting, decorate a room with furniture, or decorate yourself with jewelry. Decorative, on the other hand, is typically used to describe objects or elements that are meant to enhance the visual appeal of a space. For example, decorative vases, decorative mirrors, or decorative wall art.

Impact

When you decorate a space, you are actively changing its appearance and creating a certain atmosphere. Whether you are decorating for a holiday, a special occasion, or just to freshen up a room, the act of decorating can have a significant impact on how you feel in that space. On the other hand, decorative elements are more about adding finishing touches and enhancing the overall aesthetic of a space. They may not have as dramatic of an impact as decorating, but they can still make a space feel more inviting and visually appealing.

Examples

• Decorate: The interior designer will decorate the living room with new furniture and accessories.
• Decorative: The decorative throw pillows on the bed added a touch of elegance to the room.

Conclusion

While decorate and decorative are related terms, they have distinct meanings and functions. Decorate involves physically adding something to enhance the appearance of an object or space, while decorative describes something as serving to make something else more attractive or festive. Understanding the differences between these two words can help you better communicate your design intentions and create spaces that are both functional and visually appealing.