What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sump
Example
The mechanic drained the oil from the car's sump. [sump: noun]
Example
The basement had a sump pump to prevent flooding. [sump: adjective]
reservoir
Example
The city's reservoir provides water for thousands of residents. [reservoir: noun]
Example
The battery acts as a reservoir of energy for the device. [reservoir: metaphorical]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reservoir is more commonly used than sump in everyday language. Reservoir has a broader range of applications and can be used in various contexts, while sump is more specific and technical.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sump and reservoir?
Both sump and reservoir can be used in technical or specialized contexts, but reservoir can also be used in more general and formal contexts, such as in academic writing or public speeches.
