What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orbiting
Example
The Earth orbits around the sun. [orbits: verb]
Example
The satellite is in a stable orbit around the planet. [orbit: noun]
rotating
Example
The Earth rotates on its axis once every 24 hours. [rotates: verb]
Example
The fan is rotating at high speed. [rotating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rotating is more commonly used than orbiting in everyday language. Rotating is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while orbiting is less common and mainly used in astronomical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between orbiting and rotating?
Both orbiting and rotating are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
