What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
artery
Example
The coronary artery supplies oxygenated blood to the heart muscles. [artery: noun]
Example
The main artery leading into the city was congested with traffic. [artery: noun]
vein
Example
The jugular vein returns deoxygenated blood from the head to the heart. [vein: noun]
Example
There is a vein of gold running through this rock. [vein: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vein is more commonly used than artery in everyday language. While artery is primarily used in medical and anatomical contexts, vein has broader applications and can be used metaphorically to describe characteristics or qualities that run through a group or category of people or things.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between artery and vein?
Both artery and vein are formal words, but artery is more specialized and specific to medical terminology. Vein can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in everyday language.
