What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mine
Example
The miners worked tirelessly in the mine to extract coal. [mine: noun]
Example
The military used a land mine to protect their base from enemy attacks. [mine: noun]
Example
The company plans to mine for gold in the mountains. [mine: verb]
shaft
Example
The miners descended into the mine through the shaft. [shaft: noun]
Example
The elevator stopped at every floor as it descended down the shaft of the building. [shaft: noun]
Example
The sun's rays shone through the window, casting a shaft of light across the room. [shaft: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mine is more commonly used than shaft in everyday language, especially in the context of mining. However, shaft is still a common word and can be used in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mine and shaft?
Both mine and shaft are versatile words that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, mine may be associated with more technical or specialized language in certain contexts, such as mining engineering or geology.
