What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gondola
Example
We took a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. [gondola: noun]
Example
The gondola carried skiers up the mountain to the ski resort. [gondola: noun]
Example
The train was loaded with gondolas filled with coal. [gondolas: plural noun]
punt
Example
We went punting on the river and enjoyed the scenery. [punting: gerund or present participle]
Example
He scored a goal with a perfect punt over the goalie's head. [punt: noun]
Example
I placed a punt on the horse race and won big. [punt: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Punt is more commonly used than gondola in everyday language due to its additional meanings in football (soccer) and gambling. Gondola is less common and is mainly associated with Venice, Italy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gondola and punt?
Both gondola and punt are typically associated with a casual and informal tone, but gondola may be used in more formal contexts when referring to the type of freight train car with an enclosed top and open sides.