What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
volplane
Example
The pilot expertly executed a volplane to land the glider safely. [volplane: noun]
Example
The glider began to volplane towards the runway, guided by the skilled pilot. [volplaning: gerund or present participle]
glide
Example
The eagle soared through the sky with a graceful glide. [glide: noun]
Example
The glider was able to glide for miles without any engine power. [glided: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Glide is more commonly used than volplane in everyday language. Glide is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while volplane is more specialized and typically used in aviation or gliding contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between volplane and glide?
Volplane is typically associated with a technical and precise tone, making it more formal than glide, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.