What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lake
Example
We went swimming in the lake yesterday. [lake: noun]
Example
The lake is a vital source of freshwater for the nearby town. [lake: noun]
reservoir
Example
The reservoir was built to provide water for the city. [reservoir: noun]
Example
The reservoir is stocked with fish for recreational fishing. [reservoir: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lake is a more common word than reservoir in everyday language, as there are many natural lakes around the world. Reservoir is a more technical term and is commonly used in discussions about water management and engineering.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lake and reservoir?
Reservoir is a more formal term than lake, as it is often used in technical and scientific contexts. Lake is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
