What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exercise
Example
I like to do exercises in the morning to stay fit. [exercise: noun]
Example
The coach had us do some exercises to warm up before the game. [exercises: plural noun]
Example
She exercises regularly to maintain her health. [exercises: verb]
drill
Example
The basketball team did a lot of drills to improve their passing skills. [drills: plural noun]
Example
The soldiers went through a rigorous drill to prepare for combat. [drill: noun]
Example
He drilled a hole in the wall to hang a picture. [drilled: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exercise is more commonly used than drill in everyday language. Exercise is a versatile term that covers a wide range of physical activities, while drill is more specific and often associated with military or sports training.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between exercise and drill?
Both exercise and drill can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but drill may be more commonly used in formal or professional settings due to its association with structured training and discipline.
