What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crossing
Example
The train stopped at the level crossing to let the cars pass. [crossing: noun]
Example
She was crossing the street when the car suddenly appeared. [crossing: verb]
Example
The marathon runner was approaching the finishing crossing. [crossing: gerund or present participle]
intersection
Example
The accident happened at the intersection of Main Street and Elm Street. [intersection: noun]
Example
The two roads intersected at a sharp angle. [intersected: verb]
Example
The intersection of science and art is a fascinating topic. [intersection: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intersection is more commonly used than crossing in everyday language, especially in the context of road crossings. However, crossing is still a useful word to know, especially when referring to pedestrian crossings or crossings over bodies of water.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crossing and intersection?
Both crossing and intersection are relatively neutral in terms of formality, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
