What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cylinder
Example
The hydraulic press uses a cylinder to generate force. [cylinder: noun]
Example
The engine's cylinders were misfiring, causing the car to run poorly. [cylinders: plural noun]
barrel
Example
The wine was aged in oak barrels for several years. [barrels: plural noun]
Example
The hunter loaded his rifle with a fresh barrel of bullets. [barrel: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cylinder is more commonly used than barrel in everyday language. Cylinder is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while barrel is less common and refers specifically to a container with curved sides.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cylinder and barrel?
While cylinder is typically associated with a technical or scientific tone, barrel is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
