What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
duct
Example
The air ducts in the building need to be cleaned. [duct: noun]
Example
The bile duct is responsible for transporting bile from the liver to the small intestine. [duct: noun]
Example
The electrician ran the wires through the duct to connect them to the circuit breaker. [duct: noun]
tube
Example
I need to buy a new tube of toothpaste. [tube: noun]
Example
The doctor inserted a tube into the patient's nose to help him breathe. [tube: noun]
Example
The old TV had a tube that needed to be replaced. [tube: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tube is more commonly used than duct in everyday language. Tube has a wider range of applications and can refer to various cylindrical objects, while duct is more specific and often used in technical or industrial contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between duct and tube?
Both duct and tube can be used in formal or technical contexts, but duct is more likely to be used in technical or industrial settings, while tube can be used in a broader range of contexts, including everyday conversation.