What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
canal
Example
The boats sailed through the canal, transporting goods from one city to another. [canal: noun]
Example
The doctor examined my ear canal to check for any blockages. [canal: noun]
duct
Example
The air conditioning system uses ducts to distribute cool air throughout the building. [duct: noun]
Example
The tear ducts help drain tears from the eyes. [ducts: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Duct is more commonly used than canal in everyday language. Duct is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, including buildings, bodily functions, and systems. Canal is less common and is more specific to waterways and transportation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between canal and duct?
Both canal and duct can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, duct is more commonly used in technical or scientific discussions, making it slightly more formal than canal.
