What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fordable
Example
The river was fordable at this point, so we crossed it on foot. [fordable: adjective]
Example
The hikers found a fordable area in the stream and crossed it safely. [fordable: noun]
navigable
Example
The Mississippi River is one of the most navigable rivers in the world. [navigable: adjective]
Example
The captain of the ship studied the navigable charts to plan the safest route. [navigable: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Navigable is more commonly used than fordable in everyday language, especially in the context of commercial transportation. Fordable is less common and is typically used in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fordable and navigable?
Navigable is more formal than fordable, as it is often used in legal and commercial contexts. Fordable is more casual and is typically used in outdoor and recreational contexts.
