What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shoaling
Example
The beach was crowded with tourists and shoals of fish. [shoals: plural noun]
Example
The fish were shoaling near the surface, making them easy to spot. [shoaling: present participle]
schooling
Example
The school of fish moved in perfect unison, like a synchronized dance. [school: noun]
Example
The fish were schooling to avoid predators. [schooling: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Schooling is more commonly used than shoaling in everyday language. Schooling is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, including fish behavior and education, while shoaling is less common and primarily used in the context of fish behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shoaling and schooling?
Both shoaling and schooling are relatively informal words, but schooling can also be used in formal contexts when referring to the education system.
