What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
headroom
Example
The airplane had plenty of headroom for tall passengers. [headroom: noun]
Example
We need to make sure there is enough headroom for the new equipment in the storage room. [headroom: noun]
leeway
Example
I have some leeway in deciding how to approach this project. [leeway: noun]
Example
We have some leeway in terms of the deadline for this assignment. [leeway: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leeway is more commonly used than headroom in everyday language. Leeway is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while headroom is less common and refers specifically to physical space above a particular point.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between headroom and leeway?
Both headroom and leeway are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.