What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cruise
Example
We went on a cruise to the Caribbean last summer. [cruise: noun]
Example
The car cruised down the highway, enjoying the scenic views. [cruised: past tense verb]
sail
Example
We sailed around the world on a yacht. [sailed: past tense verb]
Example
He learned how to sail when he was young. [sail: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cruise is more commonly used than sail in everyday language, especially in the context of travel and tourism. Sail is more specific to boating and sailing culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cruise and sail?
While cruise is typically associated with a more luxurious and formal tone, sail can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context and audience.