What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sandbank
Example
The boat got stuck on a sandbank in the middle of the river. [sandbank: noun]
Example
The children enjoyed playing on the sandbank at the beach. [sandbank: noun]
shoal
Example
The fishermen caught a large shoal of fish in the lake. [shoal: noun]
Example
The ship ran aground on a shoal near the harbor. [shoal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shoal is less commonly used than sandbank in everyday language. Sandbank is a more versatile term and can be used in various contexts, while shoal is more specific and often used in the context of fishing or navigation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sandbank and shoal?
Both sandbank and shoal are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
