What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bascule
Example
The bascule bridge opened to let the sailboats pass through. [bascule: noun]
Example
The workers were busy repairing the bascule mechanism of the bridge. [bascule: adjective]
drawbridge
Example
The drawbridge was raised to prevent unauthorized entry into the castle. [drawbridge: noun]
Example
The soldiers lowered the drawbridge to allow the villagers to cross the moat. [drawbridge: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drawbridge is more commonly used than bascule in everyday language. Drawbridge is a familiar term that is widely recognized, while bascule is less common and may be more specific to certain technical or engineering contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bascule and drawbridge?
Both bascule and drawbridge can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, bascule may be considered more technical or specialized due to its association with bridge engineering.