What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fieldwork
Example
The biologist spent months doing fieldwork in the Amazon rainforest. [fieldwork: noun]
Example
We need to conduct some fieldwork to gather more information about the local community. [fieldwork: verb]
survey
Example
We conducted a survey to find out what our customers thought of our new product. [survey: noun]
Example
She surveyed the landscape before deciding on the best route to take. [survey: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Survey is more commonly used than fieldwork in everyday language, especially in the context of market research or opinion polls. Fieldwork is more commonly used in academic or scientific research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fieldwork and survey?
Both fieldwork and survey can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the setting and audience. However, survey is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including business, politics, and social sciences.