What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subsidence
Example
The city experienced subsidence due to excessive groundwater pumping. [subsidence: noun]
Example
The homeowner filed a claim for damages caused by subsidence of their property. [subsidence: noun]
sinking
Example
The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage. [sank: past tense]
Example
The foundation of the building is sinking into the soft soil. [sinking: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sinking is more commonly used than subsidence in everyday language. Sinking is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while subsidence is more specialized and often used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subsidence and sinking?
Subsidence is a more formal word than sinking. It is often used in scientific or technical writing, while sinking can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
