What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
browsing
Example
I enjoy browsing through the bookstore, looking for new novels. [browsing: present participle]
Example
She spent hours browsing the internet, reading articles and watching videos. [browsing: gerund]
survey
Example
The researchers conducted a survey to gather feedback from customers. [survey: noun]
Example
We need to survey the area before starting construction. [survey: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Browsing is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in the context of online activities and leisurely looking at items in stores. Survey is less common in casual conversations but is widely used in research, data collection, and assessment contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between browsing and survey?
While browsing is associated with a casual and informal tone, survey is typically used in more formal or professional settings, such as academic research, market research, or opinion polls.