What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ride
Example
I took a ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoyed the view. [ride: noun]
Example
We rode our bikes to the park for a picnic. [rode: past tense]
cruise
Example
We went on a cruise to the Caribbean and visited several islands. [cruise: noun]
Example
He cruised down the highway in his convertible with the top down. [cruised: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ride is more commonly used than cruise in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can refer to various types of transportation. Cruise is more specific and often associated with leisure and vacation contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ride and cruise?
Cruise is generally considered more formal and luxurious than ride, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the context.
