What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
railroad
Example
The railroad company is investing in new technology to improve efficiency. [railroad: noun]
Example
He worked for many years as a railroad engineer. [railroad: adjective]
railway
Example
The railway station was crowded with commuters rushing to catch their trains. [railway: noun]
Example
She studied railway engineering in college. [railway: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Railroad is more commonly used in North America, while railway is more common in other parts of the world. However, both words are widely used and understood in the context of transportation and railways.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between railroad and railway?
Both railroad and railway can be used in formal and informal contexts, and neither is considered more formal or informal than the other.
