What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cone
Example
The birthday cake was shaped like a cone. [cone: noun]
Example
The ice cream vendor handed me a cone with two scoops of vanilla. [cone: noun]
cylinder
Example
The engine has four cylinders. [cylinders: noun]
Example
I need to buy a new cylinder of toothpaste. [cylinder: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cylinder is more commonly used than cone in everyday language. Cylinder is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cone is less common and is often used in decorative or artistic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cone and cylinder?
Both cone and cylinder are formal words used in math and engineering contexts. However, cylinder is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.