What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gate
Example
The gate to the park was locked after dark. [gate: noun]
Example
She opened the gate to let the car into the driveway. [gate: verb]
turnstile
Example
I had to swipe my ticket to get through the turnstile at the subway station. [turnstile: noun]
Example
The turnstile clicked as each person passed through. [turnstile: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gate is more commonly used than turnstile in everyday language. Gate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while turnstile is less common and refers to a specific type of barrier used in public spaces.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gate and turnstile?
While gate is typically associated with a neutral or formal tone, turnstile is more commonly used in informal or technical contexts, such as in discussions of security or crowd control.