What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vorticity
Example
The vorticity of the water in the whirlpool was causing it to spin rapidly. [vorticity: noun]
Example
The vorticity of the air around the airplane's wing caused lift. [vorticity: noun]
rotation
Example
The Earth's rotation causes day and night. [rotation: noun]
Example
The wheels of the car were rotating quickly. [rotating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rotation is a more common word than vorticity in everyday language. Rotation is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while vorticity is a technical term mainly used in physics and engineering.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vorticity and rotation?
Vorticity is a technical term that is typically used in formal or academic contexts, while rotation is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.