Klondike is a specific variant of card game, while solitaire is a general term for any card game played by one person.
In essence, solitaire serves as an umbrella term encompassing a wide array of single-player card games. Think of it as a category or a genre of card games. If you're playing a card game by yourself, it falls under the general definition of solitaire.
Among the numerous solitaire variants, Klondike stands out as the most widely recognized and played, especially in the United States. In fact, Klondike is so popular that it's often simply referred to as "solitaire" by many people, leading to the common confusion between the general term and this specific game. This popular variant is believed to derive its name from the Klondike region of Yukon, Canada.
To clarify the distinction, consider the following:
| Aspect | Solitaire | Klondike |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | A broad category of card games played by one person. | A specific set of rules and layout for a solitaire game. |
| Scope | Includes hundreds of different game variations (e.g., FreeCell, Spider, Pyramid, Pyramid). | The most popular variant within the solitaire category. |
| Common Usage | Refers to any single-player card game. | What many people commonly mean when they say "solitaire." |
Therefore, while all Klondike games are solitaire games, not all solitaire games are Klondike. Klondike is to solitaire what "football" (soccer) is to "sports"—a highly popular, specific example within a broader category.
