What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cavity
Example
The carpenter filled the cavity in the wall with plaster. [cavity: noun]
Example
She went to the dentist to get a filling for her cavity. [cavity: noun]
hollow
Example
The tree trunk was hollow, providing a cozy shelter for small animals. [hollow: adjective]
Example
He carved out a hollow in the pumpkin to make a jack-o'-lantern. [hollow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hollow is more commonly used than cavity in everyday language. Hollow is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while cavity is more specific and often used in specialized fields such as dentistry or geology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cavity and hollow?
Both cavity and hollow can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, cavity is more commonly associated with technical or scientific discussions, while hollow is more commonly used in everyday conversations.
