What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mileage
Example
This car has great mileage, it can travel up to 40 miles per gallon. [mileage: noun]
Example
The truck's mileage was high due to the long-distance delivery route. [mileage: adjective]
distance
Example
The distance between New York and Los Angeles is around 2,800 miles. [distance: noun]
Example
We walked a long distance to reach the top of the mountain. [distance: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distance is more commonly used than mileage in everyday language. Distance is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while mileage is more specific and limited to the context of vehicles or machines.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mileage and distance?
Both mileage and distance are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.