What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
automobiles
Example
I need to buy a new automobile because my old car broke down. [automobile: noun]
Example
He works in the automobile industry, designing and manufacturing cars. [automobile: adjective]
vehicle
Example
The delivery company uses various vehicles to transport packages to customers. [vehicle: noun]
Example
She prefers to travel by vehicle rather than public transportation. [vehicle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vehicle is a more common and versatile term that is widely used in everyday language to refer to any means of transportation. On the other hand, automobiles is a more specific term that is commonly used in formal or technical contexts, particularly when referring to cars or motor vehicles.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between automobiles and vehicle?
Automobiles can be considered more formal or technical compared to the more general term vehicle. While automobiles are commonly used in formal or technical contexts, vehicle is suitable for both formal and informal situations.