What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
haul
Example
We had to haul the sofa up three flights of stairs. [haul: verb]
Example
The truck was used to haul the lumber to the construction site. [haul: verb]
tow
Example
The car broke down and had to be towed to the mechanic. [towed: past tense]
Example
The boat was towed behind the truck to the lake. [towed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tow is more commonly used than haul in everyday language, especially in the context of moving vehicles. Haul is less common and is often used in the context of transporting goods or materials over a long distance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between haul and tow?
Both haul and tow are generally considered formal words and are appropriate for use in both formal and informal contexts.