What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downstream
Example
The fisherman cast his line downstream and waited for a bite. [downstream: adverb]
Example
The factory dumped its waste into the river, polluting the downstream environment. [downstream: adjective]
lower
Example
Please lower your voice, people are trying to work. [lower: verb]
Example
The company announced a lower profit margin this quarter. [lower: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lower is more commonly used than downstream in everyday language. Lower is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while downstream is more limited in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between downstream and lower?
Both downstream and lower are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
