What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
transit
Example
The transit system in this city is very efficient. [transit: noun]
Example
We had to transit through three airports to get to our final destination. [transit: verb]
transportation
Example
The transportation of goods is a crucial part of the economy. [transportation: noun]
Example
We need to arrange transportation to the airport for our guests. [transportation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Transportation is more commonly used than transit in everyday language. Transportation is a broad term that covers a wide range of contexts, while transit is more specific and often used in the context of public transportation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between transit and transportation?
Both transit and transportation can be used in formal and informal contexts, but transportation is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, making it more suitable for formal writing and speech.