What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
saltwater
Example
The boat sailed across the saltwater ocean. [saltwater: adjective]
Example
Saltwater fish are adapted to living in high-salinity environments. [saltwater: noun]
seawater
Example
The seawater was too cold for swimming. [seawater: noun]
Example
Seawater is a complex mixture of salts, minerals, and organic matter. [seawater: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Saltwater is more commonly used than seawater in everyday language, as it is a more general term that can be applied to various bodies of water. Seawater is more commonly used in scientific and technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between saltwater and seawater?
Seawater is a more formal term than saltwater, as it is often used in scientific and technical contexts. Saltwater is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
