What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
locking
Example
Don't forget to lock the door before you leave. [lock: verb]
Example
The doctor recommended locking the knee brace to prevent further injury. [locking: gerund or present participle]
immobilization
Example
The police officer ordered the immobilization of the suspect's vehicle. [immobilization: noun]
Example
The paramedic applied a splint for the immobilization of the patient's broken arm. [immobilization: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Locking is more commonly used than immobilization in everyday language, especially in the context of securing doors, windows, or other objects. Immobilization is more commonly used in medical or mechanical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between locking and immobilization?
Both locking and immobilization can be used in formal or informal contexts, but immobilization may be more commonly used in technical or medical writing, which tends to be more formal.
