What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cascade
Example
The river cascaded down the mountainside, creating a beautiful sight. [cascade: verb]
Example
The sound of the cascading water was soothing and calming. [cascading: present participle]
waterfall
Example
We hiked to the top of the waterfall and enjoyed the breathtaking view. [waterfall: noun]
Example
The waterfall thundered down, creating a magnificent display of nature's power. [waterfall: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Waterfall is more commonly used than cascade in everyday language. Waterfall is a widely recognized term and is often associated with famous natural landmarks and tourist attractions. In contrast, cascade is less common and is more commonly used in specific contexts such as gardening or landscaping.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cascade and waterfall?
While cascade is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, waterfall can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Waterfall is a more versatile term that can be employed in various formality levels, depending on the context.
