What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reservoir
Example
The city's reservoir provides water for the entire population. [reservoir: noun]
Example
She has a reservoir of knowledge on the subject. [reservoir: noun]
tank
Example
The fish tank needs to be cleaned regularly. [tank: noun]
Example
The army sent in tanks to support the infantry. [tanks: noun]
Example
I totally tanked my math test. [tanked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tank is more commonly used than reservoir in everyday language. Tank is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reservoir is less common and refers specifically to a body of water used for storing and supplying water.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reservoir and tank?
While reservoir is typically associated with a formal tone, tank is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.