What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lag
Example
The team's performance began to lag after the first half of the game. [lag: verb]
Example
I'm experiencing lag on my computer, it's taking forever to load. [lag: noun]
Example
John was lagging behind the rest of the group during the hike. [lagging: present participle]
trail
Example
We went for a hike on the trail through the woods. [trail: noun]
Example
The dog left a trail of muddy paw prints all over the house. [trail: noun]
Example
I trailed behind the group to take some pictures. [trailed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trail is more commonly used than lag in everyday language, especially in outdoor or nature-related contexts. Lag is more specialized and often used in technical or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lag and trail?
Lag is more formal than trail due to its technical and business-related usage. Trail is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
