What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contiguous
Example
The United States has 48 contiguous states. [contiguous: adjective]
Example
The two buildings have contiguous walls. [contiguous: adjective]
adjoining
Example
Our hotel room had an adjoining door to the next room. [adjoining: adjective]
Example
The park has an adjoining playground for children. [adjoining: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adjoining is more commonly used than contiguous in everyday language, especially when referring to rooms or spaces. Contiguous is more formal and is often used in legal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contiguous and adjoining?
Contiguous is more formal than adjoining, which is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
