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 badly damaged. [guardrail: noun]
Example
The workers installed a guardrail around the perimeter of the construction site. [guardrail: noun]
railing
Example
The balcony railing was made of wrought iron and had intricate designs. [railing: noun]
Example
The train had a railing for passengers to hold onto while standing. [railing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Railing is a more commonly used term than guardrail in everyday language. Railing is a versatile term that can refer to various types of barriers or supports, while guardrail is a more specific term used for safety barriers.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between guardrail and railing?
Both guardrail and railing are neutral terms that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, guardrail may be more commonly used in technical or specialized settings, while railing is more commonly used in general conversation.