What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nearshore
Example
Our company decided to outsource our customer service to a nearshore provider in Mexico. [nearshore: adjective]
Example
The nearshore waters are home to a variety of fish species and coral reefs. [nearshore: noun]
offshore
Example
Our company decided to outsource our software development to an offshore team in India. [offshore: adjective]
Example
The offshore oil rig is located several miles away from the coast. [offshore: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Offshore is more commonly used than nearshore in everyday language, especially in the context of the oil and gas industry. However, nearshore is gaining popularity in the context of outsourcing business or IT services to nearby countries or regions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nearshore and offshore?
Both nearshore and offshore can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the industry and context involved. However, offshore may be associated with a more technical or specialized vocabulary due to its use in the oil and gas industry.