What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
drill
Example
He drilled a hole in the wall to hang the picture. [drilled: past tense]
Example
The soldiers went through a rigorous drill to prepare for combat. [drill: noun]
reamer
Example
The mechanic used a reamer to enlarge the hole in the metal plate. [reamer: noun]
Example
The factory has a reaming machine to smooth out the edges of the metal parts. [reaming: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drill is a more common word than reamer in everyday language. Drill has a wider range of applications and is used in various contexts, while reamer is more specific to certain industries and professions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between drill and reamer?
Both drill and reamer are technical terms and are typically used in formal or professional settings. However, drill is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while reamer is more specific and is mainly used in technical or specialized fields.