What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
patrolling
Example
The security guards were patrolling the parking lot to ensure the safety of the customers. [patrolling: verb]
Example
The police officer was on patrol when he noticed a suspicious vehicle parked on the side of the road. [patrol: noun]
policing
Example
The city council is responsible for policing the local businesses to ensure they comply with the regulations. [policing: verb]
Example
The police department is responsible for maintaining law and order in the community. [policing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Policing is a more commonly used term than patrolling in everyday language. Policing is a formal responsibility of law enforcement agencies and is used in various contexts, while patrolling is more specific and is often used in the context of private security.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between patrolling and policing?
Policing is a more formal term than patrolling. It is associated with law enforcement and public safety and is used in formal and informal contexts. Patrolling is more casual and is often used in the context of private security or informal surveillance.
