What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oar
Example
He grabbed an oar and started rowing the boat. [oar: noun]
Example
We had to oar our way through the strong current. [oar: verb]
scull
Example
She won the race in her single scull. [scull: noun]
Example
He sculled his way to the finish line in record time. [sculled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oar is more commonly used than scull in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. Scull is more commonly used in the context of competitive rowing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oar and scull?
Both oar and scull are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.