What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sewage
Example
The sewage treatment plant processes millions of gallons of wastewater every day. [sewage: noun]
Example
The city council is investing in upgrading the sewage system to improve public health. [sewage: adjective]
wastewater
Example
The wastewater from the factory contains high levels of pollutants that need to be treated before being released into the environment. [wastewater: noun]
Example
The city has implemented a wastewater reuse program to conserve water resources. [wastewater: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wastewater is more commonly used than sewage in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and sources. Sewage is more specific and is typically used in technical or regulatory contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sewage and wastewater?
Sewage is generally considered more formal than wastewater, as it is associated with technical and regulatory language. Wastewater is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
