What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pod
Example
She picked fresh peas from the pod. [pod: noun]
Example
The family of four traveled in a cramped pod on their road trip. [pod: noun]
Example
The spacecraft had several pods for different purposes, such as sleeping and research. [pods: plural noun]
shell
Example
He cracked open the shell of the walnut to reveal the nut inside. [shell: noun]
Example
The soldiers were ordered to fire shells at the enemy's position. [shells: plural noun]
Example
The construction site was just a shell of a building, with no walls or roof yet. [shell: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shell is more commonly used than pod in everyday language, especially in contexts related to warfare, construction, and food. Pod is less common and mostly used in agricultural or botanical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pod and shell?
Both pod and shell can be used in formal and informal contexts, but shell is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
