What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fossa
Example
The mandibular fossa is a depression in the temporal bone of the skull. [fossa: noun]
Example
The fossa was created by erosion over time. [fossa: noun]
Example
The farmer dug a fossa to divert water from the field. [fossa: noun]
hollow
Example
The bird made its nest in the hollow of the tree trunk. [hollow: noun]
Example
The artist created a sculpture with a hollow center. [hollow: adjective]
Example
After the breakup, she felt a hollow ache in her chest. [hollow: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hollow is a more common word than fossa and is used in everyday language in a variety of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fossa and hollow?
Fossa is a more formal and technical word, while hollow is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
