What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
axis
Example
The Earth rotates on its axis, causing day and night. [axis: noun]
Example
The x-axis represents the horizontal line on a graph. [axis: noun]
pivot
Example
The door pivots on its hinges to open and close. [pivot: verb]
Example
She was the pivot of the team, leading them to victory. [pivot: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Axis is more commonly used than pivot in scientific and mathematical contexts. Pivot, on the other hand, is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in business, sports, and personal relationships.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between axis and pivot?
While axis is typically associated with a more technical and formal tone, pivot can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing for a wider range of usage.