What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trottoir
Example
The trottoir was crowded with people rushing to work. [trottoir: noun]
Example
The jogger ran on the trottoir next to the busy street. [trottoir: noun]
footpath
Example
The footpath led through the forest to a beautiful waterfall. [footpath: noun]
Example
We walked along the footpath to enjoy the scenic views. [footpath: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Footpath is more commonly used than trottoir in everyday language, especially in countries like the UK and Australia. Trottoir is more commonly used in French-speaking countries and may not be familiar to English speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between trottoir and footpath?
Trottoir is a more formal term than footpath, which is more casual and informal. Footpath can be used in a variety of contexts, while trottoir is more specific to urban environments and may be less versatile.
