What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bireme
Example
The bireme was a formidable warship used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. [bireme: noun]
Example
The sailors rowed the bireme with great strength and coordination. [bireme: verb]
galley
Example
The galley sailed across the Mediterranean Sea, carrying goods and passengers. [galley: noun]
Example
The crew members rowed the galley with all their might during the battle. [galley: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Galley is a more commonly used term compared to bireme. While galley can be found in various contexts and is still used today to refer to historical and fictional ships, bireme is a more specialized term mainly used in historical and academic discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bireme and galley?
Both bireme and galley are considered formal terms due to their historical and technical nature. However, galley is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while bireme is more commonly used in formal and academic settings.