What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barge
Example
The barge was loaded with containers and sailed down the river. [barge: noun]
Example
They barged their way through the crowd to get to the front. [barged: past tense verb]
boat
Example
We went out on a boat to enjoy a day of fishing. [boat: noun]
Example
She loves boating on the lake during the summer. [boating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Boat is a more commonly used term than barge in everyday language. Boat is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while barge is more specific and often used in industrial or commercial settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between barge and boat?
While barge is associated with a more technical and specialized tone, boat is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.