In English, certain words may seem similar but have distinct meanings and uses. Two such words are “crevasse” and “crevice.” While both refer to openings or cracks, they occur in different contexts and have different characteristics. This lesson will define each term and provide examples to clarify their correct usage.
Crevasse
Definition:
The word “crevasse” refers to a deep opening or crack, usually found in a glacier. It is often wide and can be quite dangerous due to its depth and the icy environment in which it forms.
Examples of use:
Fran is standing too close to the crevasse of the glacier.
The mountaineers carefully navigated around the massive crevasse.
A sudden snowstorm obscured the crevasse, making the trek perilous.
Crevice
Definition:
The word “crevice” refers to a narrow opening or crack in a wall, floor, or rock. It is typically smaller and less deep than a crevasse, occurring in various surfaces like rocks, buildings, or other solid structures.
Examples of use:
A bat can find the smallest crevice to sleep in during the day.
Plants can grow in the tiniest crevice of a stone wall.
The treasure was hidden in a crevice in the ancient temple’s ruins.
While “crevasse” and “crevice” both describe types of openings or cracks, they differ in their specific contexts and characteristics. A “crevasse” is a deep, wide crack found in glaciers, whereas a “crevice” is a narrow, small opening found in various solid surfaces. Understanding these distinctions ensures precise and accurate communication, particularly in descriptions of natural and man-made environments.
