What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
switchyard
Example
The switchyard is responsible for distributing electricity to the surrounding areas. [switchyard: noun]
Example
The workers were busy repairing the switchyard after the storm caused damage. [switchyard: noun]
substation
Example
The substation was responsible for regulating the voltage of the electricity before it was distributed to the surrounding areas. [substation: noun]
Example
The workers were busy repairing the transformers at the substation after the power outage. [substation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Substation is more commonly used than switchyard in everyday language. Substation is used more commonly in residential and commercial areas, while switchyard is used more commonly in power plants and large-scale electrical systems.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between switchyard and substation?
Both switchyard and substation are technical terms and are typically used in formal contexts related to the electrical power industry.