What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
roadroller
Example
The roadroller was used to flatten the newly paved road. [roadroller: noun]
Example
The construction workers operated the roadroller to compact the soil before laying the foundation. [roadroller: verb]
steamroller
Example
The steamroller was used to flatten the old building before demolition. [steamroller: noun]
Example
The politician steamrolled his opponents with his powerful speeches. [steamrolled: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Roadroller is more commonly used than steamroller in everyday language. Roadroller is a more versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts in the construction and infrastructure industry. In contrast, steamroller is less common and is often used metaphorically to describe forceful or aggressive behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between roadroller and steamroller?
Both roadroller and steamroller are technical terms used in the construction and engineering fields. Therefore, they are generally considered formal words and are not commonly used in casual conversation.
