What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
timbers
Example
The old barn was built with sturdy timbers that have lasted for generations. [timbers: noun]
Example
The miners used timbers to support the roof of the tunnel. [timbers: noun]
lumber
Example
The carpenter bought some lumber to build a bookshelf. [lumber: noun]
Example
They lumbered the logs into planks at the sawmill. [lumbered: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lumber is a more commonly used term than timbers, as it is a versatile material used in many industries and applications. Timbers are less common and more specialized, often used in larger-scale construction projects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between timbers and lumber?
Both timbers and lumber are neutral terms that can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience.
