What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tornado
Example
The tornado destroyed several homes in the area. [tornado: noun]
Example
The storm chasers were able to capture footage of the tornado forming. [tornado: noun]
vortex
Example
The boat was caught in a vortex and spun around in circles. [vortex: noun]
Example
The scientist studied the vortex created by the spinning fan. [vortex: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tornado is a more commonly used term than vortex, especially in the context of severe weather and natural disasters.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tornado and vortex?
Both tornado and vortex can be used in formal and informal contexts, but vortex may be more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
