What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
asphalt
Example
The workers are busy laying down fresh asphalt on the highway. [asphalt: noun]
Example
I slipped on the wet asphalt and fell down. [asphalt: adjective]
bitumen
Example
The road was repaired using a mixture of bitumen and gravel. [bitumen: noun]
Example
The bitumen coating on the roof prevents water from leaking inside. [bitumen: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Asphalt is more commonly used and recognized by the general public, while bitumen is more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between asphalt and bitumen?
Both asphalt and bitumen are generally considered formal terms, suitable for technical or professional discussions in the construction industry.
