What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obus
Example
The soldiers loaded the obus into the cannon. [obus: noun]
Example
The obus exploded upon impact, causing significant damage. [obus: noun]
shell
Example
The tank fired a shell at the enemy position. [shell: noun]
Example
The shell of the turtle was hard and protective. [shell: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shell is more commonly used in English than obus. Shell is a versatile word that can refer to different types of ammunition, while obus is a more specific term that is less commonly used in English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between obus and shell?
Both obus and shell are formal words that are typically used in military contexts.