What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spearing
Example
He was spearing the fish with his sharp stick. [spearing: verb]
Example
The indigenous tribe used spearing as their primary fishing method. [spearing: noun]
harpooning
Example
The whalers were harpooning the whale from their boat. [harpooning: verb]
Example
The museum had a display of old harpoons used by fishermen. [harpoons: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spearing is less common than harpooning in everyday language. Spearing is more associated with indigenous cultures and survival skills, while harpooning is more commonly associated with commercial fishing and whaling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spearing and harpooning?
Both spearing and harpooning are informal terms that are not typically used in formal contexts.
