What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coasting
Example
He was coasting down the hill on his skateboard. [coasting: verb]
Example
The boat was coasting along the calm waters. [coasting: present participle]
gliding
Example
The eagle was gliding through the sky, searching for prey. [gliding: present participle]
Example
She was gliding across the ice with elegance and precision. [gliding: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Coasting is more commonly used in the context of land-based activities, such as biking or skateboarding, while gliding is more commonly used to describe movement through air or water. Coasting is also more commonly used in everyday language compared to gliding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coasting and gliding?
Both coasting and gliding can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, gliding may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with aviation and water sports.
