Pullover vs. Sweater: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 8, 2023
A pullover is a type of sweater that is put on by pulling it over the head, whereas a sweater is a generic term for a knitted garment for the upper body.
Key Differences
The distinction between a pullover and a sweater lies in the way they are worn and sometimes in their design. A pullover, as the name suggests, refers to a knitted upper garment that is worn by pulling it over the head. Conversely, a sweater is a knitted garment designed to keep the upper body warm and can have varying styles, including pullovers, cardigans, and more.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Pullovers can be considered a subset within the larger category of sweaters. They lack an opening in the front, distinguishing them from other types of sweaters like cardigans, which feature buttons, zippers, or hooks. Sweaters can have various neck designs such as crew neck, v-neck, or turtleneck, accommodating various style preferences and weather needs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
In the context of climate and wear, pullovers often provide a cozy, casual aesthetic and might be chosen for their ease of wear. Sweaters, with their varied styles and designs, cater to a range of occasions, from formal to casual, by offering an assortment of wear options, such as zipped, buttoned, belted, or open styles.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Design-wise, pullovers often feature a range of patterns, textures, and materials but are uniformly designed to be worn without opening or closing fastenings. Sweaters, meanwhile, cater to a variety of design needs, with options ranging from simple, unadorned styles to those embellished with buttons, zippers, or belts, expanding the style, functional, and thermal possibilities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Lastly, pullovers generally present fewer stylistic choices since they lack front fastenings, adhering primarily to differences in material, color, and pattern. Sweaters embrace a wider range of style choices due to the inclusion of various garment fastenings, necklines, and fits, allowing wearers to incorporate them into numerous outfit combinations and styles.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A sweater pulled over the head
A knitted garment for the upper body
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Styles
Primarily varies in material & pattern
Varies in material, pattern, & opening style
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Use
Casual, usually no fastenings
Can be casual or formal, may have fastenings
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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Pullover and Sweater Definitions
Pullover
A pullover often lacks buttons, zippers, or hooks.
The simplicity of a pullover makes it versatile.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Sweater
Sweaters can be designed with buttons, zippers, or left open.
My zipper sweater allows for adjustable warmth.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Pullover
A pullover is a sweater that is put on over the head.
I prefer a pullover because it's easy to wear.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Sweater
A sweater is a knitted garment worn on the upper body.
I wore a sweater to stay warm in the chilly weather.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Pullover
Pullovers often have varied neck styles, like crew or v-neck.
I chose a v-neck pullover for a slightly formal look.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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Sweater
Sweaters come in a range of styles, including cardigans and pullovers.
I own sweaters in several styles to suit different occasions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Pullover
Pullovers can be made of wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers.
My cotton pullover is perfect for cool summer nights.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Sweater
Sweaters may feature a multitude of patterns, colors, and neck designs.
I chose a solid-colored crew neck sweater for a classic look.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Pullover
Pullovers can feature various patterns and colors.
The festive patterns on my pullover are great for holiday gatherings.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Sweater
A garment for the upper body of wool, cotton, or synthetic yarn, typically knitted, having long sleeves, and worn in cold weather.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 08, 2023
Pullover
A garment, such as a sweater, designed to be put on or taken off over the head. Also called slipover.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 08, 2023
Pullover
A sweater that must be put on by pulling it over the head; a sweater without buttons or a zipper in front
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 08, 2023
Pullover
(weightlifting) An exercise performed lying on the back in which the arms are extended behind the head and exertion lifts the weight above the head.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 08, 2023
Sweater
A knitted jacket or jersey, usually of thick wool, worn by athletes before or after exercise.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 08, 2023
Pullover
An exercise in which the gymnast pulls up from a hang lifting the legs up and over the bar thus rolling into a support position.
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Jan 08, 2023
Sweater
(historical) An exploitative middleman who subcontracted piece work in the tailoring trade.
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Jan 08, 2023
Sweater
(archaic) One who sweats coins, i.e. removes small portions by shaking them.
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Jan 08, 2023
Sweater
A London street ruffian in Queen Anne's time who prodded weak passengers with his sword-point.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 08, 2023
Sweater
Sweaters are made from various materials, like wool, cotton, or synthetic blends.
My wool sweater is incredibly warm and cozy.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
FAQs
Is a cardigan a type of sweater?
Yes, a cardigan, with its open front, is a type of sweater.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
What denotes the quality of a sweater?
The quality of a sweater can be determined by material, knitting technique, and overall craftsmanship.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
What is a common neckline for a pullover?
Common necklines for pullovers include crew necks and v-necks.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Do pullovers always have long sleeves?
No, pullovers can have various sleeve lengths including short, long, or none.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Are sweaters only for winter wear?
No, sweaters can be made from lighter materials like cotton, making them suitable for other seasons.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Are pullovers usually more casual than other sweaters?
Generally yes, pullovers often have a more casual appearance.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can sweaters have zippers or buttons?
Yes, sweaters can have zippers, buttons, or other fastenings, unlike pullovers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can all sweaters be referred to as pullovers?
No, only sweaters without front openings are pullovers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can a sweater be worn in a formal setting?
Yes, certain sweaters like finely knitted cardigans or vests can be formal.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
What is the defining characteristic of a pullover?
A pullover is defined by being put on by pulling it over the head without unfastening.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Are pullovers typically made from wool only?
No, pullovers can be made from various materials including cotton, synthetic fibers, and more.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Is a hoodie a type of pullover?
Typically yes, a hoodie is a type of pullover if it lacks a front opening.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Can sweaters accommodate various styles and occasions?
Yes, the vast variety of sweater styles can cater to numerous occasions and preferences.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Can a sweater be sleeveless?
Yes, some sweaters, often referred to as sweater vests, are sleeveless.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
How do you generally care for pullovers?
Care for pullovers depends on material but often involves gentle washing and flat drying.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can a sweater be made from synthetic materials?
Yes, sweaters can be made from synthetic materials like acrylic and polyester.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Can pullovers feature additional elements like pockets?
Yes, pullovers can have various design elements, including pockets, hoods, or additional embellishments.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Is it common for pullovers to have patterns or prints?
Yes, pullovers often feature various patterns, prints, or solid colors.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Can sweaters be hand-knitted and machine-knitted?
Yes, sweaters can be produced both by hand-knitting and machine-knitting methods.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
