What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subgrade
Example
The subgrade of the highway was reinforced with gravel and compacted soil. [subgrade: noun]
Example
The engineers inspected the subgrade before laying the concrete foundation. [subgrade: noun]
bed
Example
The riverbed was filled with rocks and sediment. [bed: noun]
Example
The pipes were laid in a trench bed of sand and gravel. [bed: noun]
Example
I need to go to bed early tonight because I have an early morning tomorrow. [bed: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bed is a more common word than subgrade in everyday language, as it has a wider range of contexts and uses.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between subgrade and bed?
Subgrade is a more technical and formal word than bed, which can have both formal and informal connotations depending on the context.