What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ferryman
Example
The ferryman helped us cross the river in his boat. [ferryman: noun]
Example
In Greek mythology, Charon is the ferryman who carries souls across the river Styx. [ferryman: noun]
boatman
Example
The boatman rowed us across the lake. [boatman: noun]
Example
The boatman skillfully navigated the boat through the rough waters. [boatman: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Boatman is more commonly used than ferryman in everyday language. Boatman is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while ferryman is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ferryman and boatman?
Both ferryman and boatman are associated with a casual and informal tone, but ferryman may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with transportation services.
