What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prospecting
Example
The sales team spent the day prospecting for new clients in the downtown area. [prospecting: present participle]
Example
The mining company hired a team of geologists to prospect the land for valuable minerals. [prospecting: verb]
canvassing
Example
The volunteers spent the weekend canvassing the neighborhood to raise awareness about the upcoming election. [canvassing: present participle]
Example
The sales representative spent the afternoon canvassing the local businesses to promote their new product. [canvassing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Canvassing is more commonly used than prospecting in everyday language, especially in the context of political campaigns or surveys. Prospecting is more commonly used in a business or sales context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prospecting and canvassing?
Both prospecting and canvassing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but prospecting may be more commonly used in a formal business setting.
