What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
earthmover
Example
The construction company brought in an earthmover to clear the site for the new building. [earthmover: noun]
Example
The operator skillfully maneuvered the earthmover to dig a trench for the pipeline. [earthmover: noun]
excavator
Example
The excavator was used to demolish the old building and clear the site for the new one. [excavator: noun]
Example
The operator used the excavator to dig a foundation for the new house. [excavator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excavator is more commonly used than earthmover in everyday language. Excavator is a more general term that covers a wider range of tasks, while earthmover is a more specific term that refers to a machine designed for moving large quantities of earth or debris.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between earthmover and excavator?
Both earthmover and excavator are technical terms used in the construction and mining industries, making them more formal than everyday language. However, excavator is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, making it slightly less formal than earthmover.