What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
axises
Example
The Earth rotates on its axises, causing day and night. [axises: noun]
Example
In a graph, the x- and y- axises intersect at the origin. [axises: noun]
axes
Example
The Earth's axes of rotation are the North and South Poles. [axes: noun]
Example
He used his axes to chop firewood for the winter. [axes: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
'Axes' is more commonly used than 'axises' in everyday language. 'Axes' is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, including both technical and non-technical usage. 'Axises' is less common and is primarily used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between axises and axes?
While 'axises' is typically associated with technical or scientific language, 'axes' is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.