What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fosse
Example
The castle was surrounded by a deep fosse to prevent enemy attacks. [fosse: noun]
Example
The workers dug a fosse to divert the water from the river into the fields. [fosse: noun]
moat
Example
The castle's moat was filled with water to prevent enemy attacks. [moat: noun]
Example
The farmer dug a moat to irrigate his crops. [moat: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Moat is more commonly used than fosse in everyday language, especially in the context of castles or fortifications. Fosse is less common and is mostly used in technical or historical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fosse and moat?
Fosse is more formal than moat, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
