What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bicycle
Example
I ride my bicycle to work every day. [bicycle: noun]
Example
She enjoys going on long bicycle rides on the weekends. [bicycle: adjective]
bike
Example
I need to buy a new bike because mine got stolen. [bike: noun]
Example
He likes to bike to the park on sunny days. [bike: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bike is more commonly used than bicycle in everyday language. It is a popular term used by people of all ages and backgrounds, while bicycle is more commonly used in formal or written contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bicycle and bike?
While bicycle is associated with a more formal tone, bike is informal and suitable for casual conversations or informal writing.