What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jetsam
Example
The beach was littered with jetsam from the recent storm. [jetsam: noun]
Example
The crew jettisoned the excess cargo as jetsam to prevent the ship from sinking. [jetsam: noun]
trash
Example
Don't forget to take out the trash before you leave. [trash: noun]
Example
She threw away the old magazines because they were just trash. [trash: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trash is a more common term used in everyday language, while jetsam is less commonly used and has a more specific meaning related to maritime activities.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jetsam and trash?
Both jetsam and trash are generally informal terms, but jetsam may be used in more specialized or technical contexts related to maritime activities.