What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
excavator
Example
The excavator dug a deep hole for the foundation of the building. [excavator: noun]
Example
The operator used the excavator to demolish the old structure. [excavator: verb]
shovel
Example
I used a shovel to clear the snow from the driveway. [shovel: noun]
Example
She shoveled the dirt into the wheelbarrow. [shoveled: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shovel is more commonly used than excavator in everyday language. Shovel is a common household tool that can be found in many homes and used for various tasks. Excavator, on the other hand, is a specialized machine used mainly in construction and industrial settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between excavator and shovel?
Excavator is a more formal term than shovel. It is typically used in technical or professional contexts, while shovel is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
