What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tariff
Example
The government imposed a tariff on imported steel to protect local manufacturers. [tariff: noun]
Example
The new tariff rates will be published in the official gazette next week. [tariff: plural noun]
duty
Example
The customs officer collected the duty on the imported goods. [duty: noun]
Example
It is our duty as citizens to vote in the election. [duty: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tariff is more commonly used in the context of international trade, while duty can be used in various contexts, such as legal, moral, or personal obligations. In everyday language, duty is more commonly used than tariff.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tariff and duty?
Tariff is typically used in formal or technical contexts, such as economics or international trade, while duty can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the meaning and context of usage.
