What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
patrol
Example
The security team went on patrol around the building to ensure there were no intruders. [patrol: noun]
Example
The police officer patrolled the streets to maintain law and order. [patrolled: verb]
police
Example
The police arrived at the scene of the accident to investigate. [police: noun]
Example
The officer was trained to police the area effectively. [police: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Police is a more common term than patrol in everyday language. Police is a well-known and widely used term, while patrol is more specific and may not be used as frequently.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between patrol and police?
Police is a more formal term than patrol. Police is associated with a higher level of authority and formality, while patrol is more casual and informal.