What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ell
Example
The fabric was sold by the ell. [ell: noun]
Example
The road took a sharp ell to the left. [ell: noun]
Example
I have nothing to do ell I might as well go for a walk. [ell: adverb]
length
Example
The length of the table is six feet. [length: noun]
Example
The length of the movie was two hours. [length: noun]
Example
I was surprised by the length of the line at the store. [length: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Length is more commonly used than ell in everyday language due to its versatility and modern usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ell and length?
Both ell and length can be used in formal and informal contexts, but length is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
