What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
moat
Example
The castle was surrounded by a moat to prevent invaders from entering. [moat: noun]
Example
The company built a moat around its business model to protect it from competitors. [moat: metaphorical usage]
Example
The farmer dug a moat to divert water from the fields. [moat: irrigation usage]
trench
Example
The soldiers dug a trench to protect themselves from enemy fire. [trench: noun]
Example
The company found itself in a trench of debt and struggled to get out. [trench: metaphorical usage]
Example
She wore a trench coat to stay warm and dry in the rain. [trench: clothing item]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trench is more commonly used than moat in everyday language. Trench is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while moat is less common and is primarily associated with historical or military contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between moat and trench?
Both moat and trench are formal words, but moat may be considered more formal due to its historical and military associations.
