What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gangplank
Example
The passengers walked down the gangplank to board the cruise ship. [gangplank: noun]
Example
The crew lowered the gangplank to allow the cargo to be loaded onto the ship. [gangplank: noun]
gangway
Example
Please make way for the passengers coming through the gangway. [gangway: noun]
Example
The crowd parted to make a gangway for the VIP to enter the building. [gangway: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gangway is more commonly used than gangplank in everyday language. Gangway is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gangplank is less common and more specific to nautical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gangplank and gangway?
Both gangplank and gangway are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
