What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cistern
Example
The old farmhouse had a cistern in the basement to collect rainwater. [cistern: noun]
Example
The cistern was filled to capacity after the heavy rainfall. [cistern: noun]
tank
Example
The oil refinery has several tanks for storing crude oil. [tank: noun]
Example
The army deployed tanks to the battlefield for the offensive. [tanks: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
In everyday language, tank is more commonly used than cistern. Tank is a versatile word that can refer to various types of containers, including those used for storage or transportation. Cistern, on the other hand, is less common and is mainly used in specific contexts related to water storage or conservation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cistern and tank?
Both cistern and tank can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, cistern may be more commonly used in technical or specialized discussions related to water systems or architecture, while tank has a broader range of usage and can be employed in various formality levels.
