What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crossfall
Example
The crossfall of the road helps to prevent water from pooling on the surface. [crossfall: noun]
Example
The pavement has a slight crossfall to allow for proper drainage. [crossfall: adjective]
superelevation
Example
The superelevation of the track allowed the train to take the curve at high speed. [superelevation: noun]
Example
The engineers calculated the necessary superelevation for the highway's sharp turn. [superelevation: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crossfall is more commonly used than superelevation in everyday language, as it has broader applications beyond transportation engineering. However, superelevation is more specific and technical, and is commonly used in the field of transportation engineering.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crossfall and superelevation?
Both crossfall and superelevation are technical terms used in transportation engineering, and are therefore more formal in nature. However, crossfall may be used in more informal contexts due to its broader applications beyond transportation engineering.