What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
taxiway
Example
The pilot followed the taxiway to reach the runway. [taxiway: noun]
Example
The plane was directed to the taxiway for servicing. [taxiway: prepositional phrase]
runway
Example
The plane accelerated down the runway before taking off. [runway: noun]
Example
The runway was closed due to maintenance work. [runway: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Runway is more commonly used than taxiway in everyday language. Runway is a more well-known term and is often used in news reports and popular media. Taxiway is a more technical term and is mainly used in aviation-related contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between taxiway and runway?
Both taxiway and runway are technical terms used in aviation-related contexts, so they are generally considered formal words.
