What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backbone
Example
The backbone consists of a series of bones called vertebrae. [backbone: noun]
Example
She showed great backbone in standing up for what she believed in. [backbone: noun]
Example
The backbone of the argument was the evidence presented by the witness. [backbone: noun]
vertebrae
Example
There are 33 vertebrae in the human spine. [vertebrae: noun]
Example
The accident caused damage to several vertebrae in his neck. [vertebrae: noun]
Example
Yoga can help improve the flexibility of your vertebrae. [vertebrae: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Backbone is more commonly used in everyday language, while vertebrae is more technical and specific to medical or anatomical discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backbone and vertebrae?
While backbone can be used in both formal and informal contexts, vertebrae is more technical and formal, typically used in scientific or medical settings.
