What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crossbow
Example
The hunter aimed his crossbow at the deer in the clearing. [crossbow: noun]
Example
She enjoys practicing with her crossbow at the archery range. [crossbow: noun]
bow
Example
The archer pulled back the bowstring and released the arrow towards the target. [bow: noun]
Example
He likes to bow hunt for deer during the fall season. [bow: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bow is more commonly used than crossbow in everyday language. Bow is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while crossbow is less common and often associated with specific historical or fictional settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between crossbow and bow?
While crossbow is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, bow is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.