What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hoover
Example
I need to hoover the living room before our guests arrive. [hoover: verb]
Example
I just bought a new Hoover vacuum cleaner. [Hoover: proper noun]
Example
The hoover was so loud that it woke up the baby. [hoover: noun]
vacuum
Example
I need to vacuum the living room before our guests arrive. [vacuum: verb]
Example
I just bought a new vacuum for cleaning carpets and floors. [vacuum: noun]
Example
Outer space is a vacuum with no air or matter. [vacuum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vacuum is more commonly used than Hoover in everyday language. Vacuum is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while Hoover is less common and may be associated with a specific brand.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hoover and vacuum?
Both Hoover and vacuum are generally considered informal words and are suitable for casual conversations. However, in more formal settings, it may be more appropriate to use the term 'vacuum cleaner' instead of either word.