What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
duct
Example
The ducts in the building were cleaned to improve air quality. [duct: noun]
Example
The bile duct carries bile from the liver to the small intestine. [duct: noun]
Example
The sweat ducts in the skin help regulate body temperature. [duct: noun]
pipe
Example
The plumber fixed the leaky pipe under the sink. [pipe: noun]
Example
She played a beautiful melody on her flute, a type of pipe. [pipe: noun]
Example
He smoked his pipe after dinner as a way to relax. [pipe: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pipe is more commonly used than duct in everyday language. Pipe is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while duct is less common and refers to a specific type of tube used in air conditioning and ventilation systems.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between duct and pipe?
While duct is typically associated with a technical and formal tone, pipe is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.