What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
catapulted
Example
The explosion catapulted debris into the air. [catapulted: past tense]
Example
The athlete was catapulted forward by the force of the explosion. [catapulted: verb]
propelled
Example
The motor propels the boat through the water. [propels: verb]
Example
The rocket is propelled by a powerful engine. [propelled: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Propelled is more commonly used than catapulted in everyday language. Propelled is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as describing the movement of vehicles or objects. Catapulted, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used in specific situations where a sudden and forceful launch is involved.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between catapulted and propelled?
Both catapulted and propelled can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, propelled is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, making it suitable for both casual conversations and professional writing.
