What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spring
Example
The flowers bloom in the spring. [spring: noun]
Example
The mattress has springs inside for added comfort. [spring: noun]
Example
The cat sprang onto the table to catch the mouse. [sprang: past tense]
coil
Example
The snake coiled itself around the tree branch. [coiled: past tense]
Example
The wire was wound into a tight coil. [coil: noun]
Example
The spring inside the watch is coiled tightly to keep accurate time. [coiled: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spring is more commonly used than coil in everyday language due to its versatility and multiple meanings. Coil is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spring and coil?
Both spring and coil can be used in formal and informal contexts, but coil may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, making it slightly more formal than spring.
