What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
steam
Example
The steam from the kettle fogged up the windows. [steam: noun]
Example
The train was powered by steam. [steam: noun]
Example
She steamed the vegetables for dinner. [steamed: verb]
power
Example
He had the power to make decisions for the company. [power: noun]
Example
The wind turbines generate power for the entire city. [power: noun]
Example
She powered through the last few pages of the book. [powered: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Power is more commonly used than steam in everyday language, as it has a broader range of meanings and can be used in various contexts. Steam is more specific to scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between steam and power?
Steam is typically associated with a scientific or technical tone, while power is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
