Definitions
- Describing a narrow and steep-sided valley with a stream or river running through it. - Referring to a deep and narrow gorge formed by erosion. - Talking about a natural depression in the earth's surface that is often covered with vegetation.
- Referring to a deep and narrow opening in the earth's surface, often caused by geological activity. - Describing a wide and deep gap or division between two things. - Talking about a metaphorical divide or separation between people or ideas.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe deep depressions in the earth's surface.
- 2Both words suggest a sense of danger or risk.
- 3Both words can be used metaphorically to describe divisions or separations.
- 4Both words are associated with natural formations.
What is the difference?
- 1Shape: A ravine is typically narrow and steep-sided, while a chasm can be wide or narrow and may have vertical or sloping sides.
- 2Formation: A ravine is often formed by water erosion, while a chasm can be created by geological activity such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
- 3Depth: A chasm is typically deeper than a ravine.
- 4Metaphorical use: A chasm is more commonly used metaphorically to describe a divide or separation between people or ideas, while a ravine is less commonly used in this way.
- 5Connotation: A ravine suggests a natural and scenic feature, while a chasm can suggest danger, risk, or a metaphorical divide.
Remember this!
Ravine and chasm are both words that describe deep depressions in the earth's surface. However, the difference between them lies in their shape, formation, depth, and metaphorical use. A ravine is typically narrow and steep-sided, often formed by water erosion, and suggests a natural and scenic feature. A chasm can be wide or narrow, created by geological activity, and suggests danger, risk, or a metaphorical divide.
