What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shipwrecking
Example
The shipwrecking of the Titanic is one of the most famous maritime disasters in history. [shipwrecking: noun]
Example
The ship was shipwrecked on the rocks and had to be abandoned. [shipwrecked: past participle]
foundering
Example
The ship foundered in the stormy seas and all hands were lost. [foundered: past tense]
Example
The ship was in danger of foundering due to the heavy cargo load. [foundering: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shipwrecking is more commonly used than foundering in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of situations and has a more established place in maritime vocabulary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shipwrecking and foundering?
Both shipwrecking and foundering are formal words that are typically used in technical or specialized contexts related to maritime disasters or accidents.
