What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rail
Example
The train ran smoothly along the rail. [rail: noun]
Example
She leaned over the balcony railing to get a better view. [railing: noun]
Example
He railed against the injustice of the decision. [railed: verb]
track
Example
The car left deep tracks in the mud. [tracks: noun]
Example
The runner raced around the track, trying to beat his personal best. [track: noun]
Example
We tracked the progress of the storm on the weather map. [tracked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Track is more commonly used than rail in everyday language. Track is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rail is more specific and is primarily used in transportation contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rail and track?
Both rail and track can be used in formal and informal contexts, but rail may be slightly more formal due to its association with transportation and engineering terminology.
