Cardigan vs. Sweater — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 21, 2023
A cardigan is a type of sweater that opens in the front, typically with buttons, allowing it to be put on without pulling it over the head. A sweater, generally, is a knitted garment worn over the upper body, and can include various styles.
Difference Between Cardigan and Sweater
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Key Differences
A cardigan is a knitted garment with an open front, designed to be worn over a shirt, T-shirt, or other top. Often featuring buttons or a zipper, it provides a versatile option for layering outfits. Cardigans come in various materials such as wool, cotton, and synthetic blends. They are a convenient choice when you want the option to easily remove a layer of clothing.
A sweater, on the other hand, is a more general term for any knitted top worn over the upper body. Sweaters can be pullovers, turtlenecks, or even cardigans. Unlike cardigans, many sweaters are designed to be pulled over the head. Sweaters are also versatile but can be less convenient to remove if they are pullovers.
The key difference between a cardigan and a sweater lies in the design. Cardigans have a front opening, making them a subcategory of sweaters. Sweaters can be pullovers or cardigans but don't necessarily have a front opening. The terms are often used interchangeably, but incorrectly so, as all cardigans are sweaters, but not all sweaters are cardigans.
Both cardigans and sweaters serve the fundamental purpose of providing warmth. The variety of materials and designs in both types makes them versatile enough for different occasions and seasons. Whether it's a chunky knit sweater for a cold winter day or a light cotton cardigan for a breezy summer evening, both have their unique utility.
Comparison Chart
Front Opening
Yes, typically with buttons or a zipper
Not necessarily
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Versatility
High, easy to layer
High, varies with style
Types
One type, but many variations
Includes many types, including cardigans
Material Options
Wool, cotton, synthetics, blends
Wool, cotton, synthetics, blends
Utility
Good for layering and easier removal
Good for warmth, can be bulkier
Compare with Definitions
Cardigan
A knitted garment with a front opening.
She wore a floral dress with a matching cardigan.
Sweater
A knitted garment worn over the upper body.
He wore a bright red sweater for the holiday party.
Cardigan
Often features buttons or a zipper.
His cardigan had unique wooden buttons.
Sweater
Sometimes includes intricate designs or patterns.
The sweater had a beautiful Nordic pattern.
Cardigan
Suitable for various occasions.
I have a formal cardigan for office wear.
Sweater
Comes in various styles, including pullovers and turtlenecks.
Her turtleneck sweater kept her warm all day.
Cardigan
A knitted jumper fastening down the front.
Sweater
Designed for warmth and comfort.
I need a thick sweater for the winter months.
Cardigan
A knitted garment, such as a sweater or jacket, that opens down the full length of the front.
Sweater
A sweater or pullover, also called a jumper in British and Australian English, and a windcheater in parts of Australia, is a piece of clothing, typically with long sleeves, made of knitted or crocheted material, that covers the upper part of the body. When sleeveless, the garment is often called a slipover or sweater vest.
Cardigan
A type of sweater or jumper that fastens up the front with buttons or a zipper, usually machine- or hand-knitted from wool.
Sweater
A garment for the upper body of wool, cotton, or synthetic yarn, typically knitted, having long sleeves, and worn in cold weather.
Cardigan
A warm jacket of knit worsted with or without sleeves, especially a knitted jacket with sleeves that is fastened up the front with buttons or a zipper.
Sweater
One that sweats, especially profusely.
Cardigan
A slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail.
Sweater
Something that induces sweating; a sudorific.
Cardigan
Knitted jacket that is fastened up the front with buttons or a zipper
Sweater
A knitted jacket or jersey, usually of thick wool, worn by athletes before or after exercise.
Cardigan
Slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail
Sweater
(US) A similar garment worn for warmth.
Cardigan
Versatile for layering outfits.
She threw on a cardigan over her tank top as the evening got cooler.
Sweater
One who sweats (produces sweat).
Cardigan
Generally lighter than pullover sweaters.
For summer evenings, a light cardigan is perfect.
Sweater
One who or that which causes to sweat.
Sweater
A diaphoretic remedy.
Sweater
(historical) An exploitative middleman who subcontracted piece work in the tailoring trade.
Sweater
(archaic) One who sweats coins, i.e. removes small portions by shaking them.
Sweater
A London street ruffian in Queen Anne's time who prodded weak passengers with his sword-point.
Sweater
(transitive) To dress in a sweater.
Sweater
One who sweats.
Sweater
One who, or that which, causes to sweat
Sweater
A crocheted or knitted garment covering the upper part of the body
Sweater
A person who perspires
Sweater
Can be made of different materials.
My favorite sweater is made of cashmere.
Common Curiosities
Can a cardigan be a sweater?
Yes, a cardigan is a type of sweater.
What is a cardigan?
A cardigan is a knitted garment with a front opening, often featuring buttons or a zipper.
Are all sweaters cardigans?
No, not all sweaters are cardigans.
What are sweaters typically made of?
Sweaters can also be made from wool, cotton, or synthetic materials.
Can sweaters be formal?
Some sweaters are designed for formal settings.
How do you wear a sweater?
Sweaters are typically worn over a shirt or as a top themselves.
When should you wear a sweater?
Sweaters are primarily worn for warmth and can be worn in any cold environment.
What is a sweater?
A sweater is a knitted garment worn over the upper body, coming in various styles.
What are cardigans typically made of?
Cardigans can be made from wool, cotton, or synthetic materials.
Can you layer a cardigan over a sweater?
Yes, you can layer a cardigan over a lighter sweater for extra warmth.
Is a cardigan formal wear?
It can be, depending on the style and material.
How do you wear a cardigan?
Cardigans are often worn layered over tops or dresses.
Are sweaters for women only?
No, sweaters are also unisex.
Are cardigans for men?
Yes, cardigans are unisex and are worn by both men and women.
When is it appropriate to wear a cardigan?
Cardigans are versatile and can be worn in many settings and seasons.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
