What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
keel
Example
The keel of the ship was damaged in the storm. [keel: noun]
Example
The bird's keel bone was strong and well-developed. [keel: adjective]
Example
The road dips down into a deep keel before rising again. [keel: noun]
spine
Example
She injured her spine in a car accident. [spine: noun]
Example
The spine of the book was cracked from overuse. [spine: noun]
Example
The spine of the mountain range was visible from miles away. [spine: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spine is more commonly used than keel in everyday language. Spine has a wider range of applications, including medical, literary, and geographical contexts, while keel is primarily used in nautical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between keel and spine?
Both keel and spine are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
