What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
navis
Example
The ancient Romans built navis to explore and trade across the Mediterranean. [navis: noun]
Example
Navis stellae is the Latin term for a constellation known as the Ship. [navis: adjective]
ship
Example
The cargo ship arrived at the port after a long journey across the ocean. [ship: noun]
Example
She worked as a ship captain for many years, navigating through rough waters. [ship: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ship is more commonly used than navis in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts, making it a more useful term for ESL learners to learn.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between navis and ship?
Navis may have a more formal or academic connotation due to its Latin origin, while ship is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.