What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grassland
Example
The African savanna is a vast grassland that supports a diverse range of wildlife. [grassland: noun]
Example
The cattle were grazing on the grassland, enjoying the lush greenery. [grassland: adjective]
steppe
Example
The Eurasian steppe stretches from Hungary to China, covering millions of square kilometers. [steppe: noun]
Example
The nomads traveled across the steppe with their herds, searching for fresh pasture. [steppe: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grassland is a more common term than steppe in everyday language, as it is more widely distributed and has a broader range of applications. Steppe is a more specialized term used mainly in reference to the Eurasian grasslands.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grassland and steppe?
Both grassland and steppe are neutral terms that can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience.