What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
propeller
Example
The airplane's propeller spun faster as it gained altitude. [propeller: noun]
Example
He carefully cleaned the propeller before the next flight. [propeller: noun]
rotor
Example
The rotor of the engine was damaged and needed to be replaced. [rotor: noun]
Example
The helicopter's rotor blades whirred loudly as it took off. [rotor blades: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Propeller is more commonly used than rotor in everyday language, as it is used in a wider range of contexts, including boats and airplanes. Rotor is more specialized and mainly used in the context of helicopters and other rotary-wing aircraft.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between propeller and rotor?
Both propeller and rotor are technical terms and are typically used in formal or technical contexts. However, propeller may be used in more casual contexts due to its wider usage in everyday language.
