What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
guardrail
Example
The car crashed into the guardrail and was severely damaged. [guardrail: noun]
Example
The workers installed a guardrail around the construction site to ensure safety. [guardrail: noun]
fence
Example
The farmer built a fence around his property to keep the cows from wandering off. [fence: noun]
Example
The neighbors put up a fence between their yards for privacy. [fence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fence is more commonly used than guardrail in everyday language. Fence is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while guardrail is more specific and limited to safety barriers on roads or elevated structures.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between guardrail and fence?
Both guardrail and fence are neutral words that can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience.