What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shoring
Example
The workers installed shoring to support the walls of the excavation site. [shoring: noun]
Example
The team is shoring up the foundation of the old building to prevent further damage. [shoring up: phrasal verb]
buttressing
Example
The engineers recommended buttressing the walls of the castle to prevent collapse. [buttressing: verb]
Example
The buttresses on the cathedral provide additional support to the walls. [buttresses: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Buttressing is more commonly used than shoring in everyday language. Buttressing is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts, including architecture, engineering, and even metaphorically. On the other hand, shoring is a more technical term that is primarily used in construction and engineering contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between shoring and buttressing?
Both shoring and buttressing are formal terms that are typically used in technical or professional contexts. However, buttressing may be more commonly used in academic or literary contexts due to its broader usage and metaphorical applications.