What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
asphalt
Example
The construction workers are busy laying asphalt on the new road. [asphalt: noun]
Example
The asphalt road was smooth and easy to drive on. [asphalt: adjective]
tarmac
Example
The plane taxied on the tarmac before taking off. [tarmac: noun]
Example
Passengers waited on the tarmac for their flight to be called. [tarmac: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Asphalt is more commonly used than tarmac in everyday language, as it is widely used for road construction and maintenance. Tarmac is more specialized and mainly used in aviation and airport-related contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between asphalt and tarmac?
Both asphalt and tarmac are generally considered formal terms, as they are technical words related to construction and transportation infrastructure.
