What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lift
Example
I took the lift to the 10th floor. [lift: noun]
Example
Can you help me lift this heavy box? [lift: verb]
escalator
Example
I prefer taking the escalator instead of the stairs. [escalator: noun]
Example
The airport has several escalators to help passengers move around. [escalators: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lift is more commonly used in British English, while elevator is more common in American English. Escalator is a more specific term and is less commonly used than lift or elevator.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lift and escalator?
Both lift and escalator are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
