What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quarry
Example
The quarry was a dangerous place to work due to the heavy machinery and falling rocks. [quarry: noun]
Example
The hunters set up camp near the quarry to catch some game. [quarry: noun]
Example
The police were in pursuit of the quarry who had robbed a bank earlier that day. [quarry: noun]
excavation
Example
The excavation of the ancient ruins revealed many artifacts from the past. [excavation: noun]
Example
The construction workers began the excavation for the new building's foundation. [excavation: noun]
Example
The archaeologists spent months excavating the site to uncover the remains of an ancient civilization. [excavating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excavation is more commonly used than quarry in everyday language. Excavation is a versatile term that can be applied to a wide range of contexts, while quarry is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quarry and excavation?
Both quarry and excavation can be used in formal and informal contexts, but quarry may have negative connotations in certain contexts due to its association with environmental damage or exploitation.
