What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harbour
Example
The harbour was full of fishing boats returning with their catch. [harbour: noun]
Example
She harboured a secret desire to become a singer. [harboured: past tense verb]
anchorage
Example
The captain found a good anchorage in the bay. [anchorage: noun]
Example
The climbers searched for a secure anchorage to set up camp. [anchorage: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harbour is more common in British English, while anchorage is more common in American English. Both words are less commonly used in everyday conversation and are more likely to be used in nautical or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harbour and anchorage?
Both harbour and anchorage are formal words that are more likely to be used in technical or nautical contexts. However, harbour may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
