What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
marathon
Example
She trained for months to run the marathon. [marathon: noun]
Example
The project was a marathon, taking several months to complete. [marathon: adjective]
race
Example
The runners lined up at the starting line for the race. [race: noun]
Example
We raced to finish the project before the deadline. [raced: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Race is more commonly used than marathon in everyday language. Race is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while marathon is a specific term associated with long-distance running events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between marathon and race?
While race can be used in both formal and informal contexts, marathon is typically associated with a more formal tone, especially when referring to professional or elite athletes.
