What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trail
Example
The trail through the woods was beautiful in the fall. [trail: noun]
Example
We trailed through the bushes to get to the river. [trailed: past tense verb]
route
Example
What's the best route to take to get to the airport? [route: noun]
Example
She routed the delivery truck to avoid traffic. [routed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Route is more commonly used than trail in everyday language, especially in the context of transportation and travel. Trail is less common and is often used in the context of outdoor activities and nature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between trail and route?
Route is more formal than trail, as it is often used in professional and technical contexts, such as logistics, navigation, and planning. Trail is more casual and informal, as it is often used in the context of leisure and recreation.
