What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
telegram
Example
He received a telegram from his family informing him of his father's passing. [telegram: noun]
Example
She telegraphed her acceptance of the job offer. [telegraphed: past tense verb]
cable
Example
The ambassador cabled the president with an update on the negotiations. [cabled: past tense verb]
Example
We received a cable from our supplier regarding the shipment delay. [cable: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Telegram is less commonly used than cable in everyday language, as it has largely been replaced by newer forms of communication. Cable is still used in some formal or diplomatic contexts, but it too has been largely replaced by newer technologies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between telegram and cable?
Cable is generally more formal than telegram, as it is often used for business or diplomatic communications. Telegram is more commonly associated with personal or urgent messages and may be used in more informal contexts.
