What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scanner
Example
I need to scan this document and send it to my boss. [scan: verb]
Example
The airport security scanner detected a suspicious item in the passenger's luggage. [scanner: noun]
Example
The supermarket cashier scanned each item's barcode before bagging them. [scanned: past tense]
sensor
Example
The thermostat sensor detects the room temperature and adjusts accordingly. [sensor: noun]
Example
The fitness tracker sensor monitors your heart rate during exercise. [sensor: noun]
Example
The car's parking sensor beeps when it detects an obstacle behind the vehicle. [sensor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scanner is more commonly used than sensor in everyday language, as it is more widely known and used in various contexts. Sensor is a more specialized term and is typically used in technical or industrial settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scanner and sensor?
Both scanner and sensor are neutral in terms of formality, but sensor may be perceived as more technical or specialized due to its use in specific industries and applications.
