Have you ever wondered if you should use aboard or board in a sentence? The two words may seem interchangeable, but there are actually subtle differences between them. In this article, we’ll explore the meanings of aboard and board, and when to use each one.
We should clarify the proper usage of these two words. While both can be used as verbs and prepositions, aboard is typically used to describe being on or in a vehicle or vessel, such as a ship, airplane, or train. On the other hand, board is used to describe getting on or off a vehicle or vessel, or to refer to a flat surface made of wood or other materials.
For example, you would say “I am aboard the plane” to indicate that you are currently inside the airplane. However, you would say “I am boarding the plane” to indicate that you are in the process of getting onto the airplane. Similarly, you would say “I wrote a message on the board” to indicate that you wrote on a flat surface, such as a chalkboard or whiteboard.
It’s important to use the correct word in each situation to avoid confusion or miscommunication. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the nuances of each word and provide more examples of their usage.
Define Aboard
Aboard is an adverb that means on or in a ship, boat, train, or other vehicle. It is often used to describe being physically present and traveling in a vehicle. Aboard can also refer to being a part of a group or team, such as being aboard a project or initiative.
Define Board
Board is a noun that has multiple meanings depending on the context. It can refer to a flat piece of wood or other material used for various purposes, such as building, flooring, or cutting. Board can also refer to a group of people who have been appointed to manage or oversee an organization or institution, such as a board of directors or a school board.
In the context of transportation, board is a verb that means to get on or enter a vehicle, such as boarding a plane or train. It can also refer to providing accommodations or meals for someone, such as boarding a pet or boarding school.
Board can also be used as a verb to describe taking action or making decisions, such as a board of judges who are responsible for making decisions in a competition.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right words in a sentence is crucial in conveying your message effectively. In this section, we will discuss the proper usage of the words “aboard” and “board” in a sentence.
How To Use “Aboard” In A Sentence
The word “aboard” is commonly used to indicate being on or in a vehicle, ship, or aircraft. It can also be used to mean being a part of a group or organization. Here are some examples:
- She was aboard the cruise ship when it set sail.
- The astronauts were aboard the spacecraft during takeoff.
- He was invited to come aboard the project team.
It is important to note that “aboard” is not interchangeable with “on board.” “On board” is used to indicate that something or someone is physically on a ship or aircraft, while “aboard” can also mean being a part of the group or organization that operates the vehicle.
How To Use “Board” In A Sentence
The word “board” can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to a flat piece of wood or other material used for various purposes. As a verb, it can mean to get on or enter a vehicle or to provide someone with a place to stay or work. Here are some examples:
- He nailed the board to the wall.
- The board of directors approved the new budget.
- We need to board the train before it leaves.
- The hotel will board the guests for the duration of their stay.
It is important to note that “board” can also be used as part of a compound word, such as “blackboard” or “keyboard.”
By understanding the proper usage of “aboard” and “board,” you can effectively communicate your message and avoid common grammar mistakes.
More Examples Of Aboard & Board Used In Sentences
In order to fully understand the difference between aboard and board, it’s important to see how they are used in context. Here are some examples of each:
Examples Of Using Aboard In A Sentence
- He climbed aboard the ship and set sail for the open sea.
- The flight attendant announced that all passengers should come aboard the plane.
- As soon as the train pulled into the station, we hopped aboard.
- The captain ordered the crew to come aboard the vessel immediately.
- After a long day of fishing, we were happy to be aboard the boat and headed back to shore.
- She was nervous about getting aboard the rollercoaster, but her friends convinced her to give it a try.
- Once we were all aboard the bus, the driver started the engine and we began our journey.
- The astronauts prepared to board the spacecraft and begin their mission.
- He waved goodbye to his family from aboard the train as it pulled out of the station.
- After a quick safety briefing, everyone was ready to come aboard the helicopter for their scenic tour.
Examples Of Using Board In A Sentence
- The company hired a new member to their board of directors.
- She was responsible for putting together a presentation for the board meeting.
- The surfboard was too long to fit in the car, so they strapped it to the roof.
- The carpenter used a board to measure and cut the wood for the new bookshelf.
- The teacher wrote the assignment on the board for the students to copy down.
- He was so focused on the game that he didn’t notice the board was set up wrong.
- The chess club meets every Wednesday to practice their skills on the board.
- The bulletin board in the hallway was covered in flyers and announcements.
- She was thrilled to receive a notice in the mail that she had been accepted to the university’s board of trustees.
- He spent the afternoon sanding down the rough edges of the new cutting board he had made.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
It’s easy to confuse the words “aboard” and “board” because they sound similar and have related meanings. However, using them interchangeably can lead to grammatical errors and confusion in your writing. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using “Board” Instead Of “Aboard”
One common mistake is using “board” instead of “aboard” when referring to being on a ship, plane, or other mode of transportation. For example, saying “I boarded the plane” instead of “I got aboard the plane” is incorrect. “Board” refers to getting on or off a vehicle, while “aboard” means being on or in a vehicle.
Another mistake is using “board” when referring to someone being in a group or organization. For example, saying “She’s on the board of directors” instead of “She’s aboard of directors” is incorrect. “Board” in this context refers to a group of people who manage an organization, while “aboard” means being on a ship, plane, or other vehicle.
Using “Aboard” Instead Of “On Board”
Another mistake is using “aboard” instead of “on board” when referring to something being on a ship, plane, or other vehicle. For example, saying “The luggage is aboard the plane” instead of “The luggage is on board the plane” is incorrect. “Aboard” refers to being on or in a vehicle, while “on board” means something is physically present on the vehicle.
Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes
- Double-check your writing to ensure you are using the correct word in the correct context.
- Use a dictionary or thesaurus to look up the meanings and proper usage of words.
- Read your writing out loud to catch any errors or awkward phrasing.
By avoiding these common mistakes and using “aboard” and “board” correctly, you can improve the clarity and accuracy of your writing.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between aboard and board, context is key. The two words are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in meaning that can affect which one you should use in a given situation.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between aboard and board might change:
| Context | Example | Correct Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | The passengers were getting ready to _____ the plane. | board |
| Maritime | The sailors were getting ready to go _____ the ship. | aboard |
| Business | The CEO welcomed the new executives _____ of the company. | aboard |
| Education | The students were asked to _____ their ideas on the whiteboard. | write on the board |
In transportation contexts, such as getting on a plane or train, the correct usage is board. In maritime contexts, such as getting on a ship, the correct usage is aboard. In business contexts, such as welcoming new executives to a company, the correct usage is also aboard. However, in education contexts, such as writing on a whiteboard, the correct usage is to write on the board.
It’s important to pay attention to the context in which you are using these words to ensure that you are using the correct one. Using the wrong word can not only be grammatically incorrect, but it can also change the meaning of what you are trying to say.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using aboard and board are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where these rules may not apply. Here are some explanations and examples for each case:
1. Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs are a combination of a verb and a preposition or adverb that function as a unit with a different meaning than the individual words. In some cases, both aboard and board can be used in phrasal verbs, but the meanings are different.
| Phrase | Meaning with “aboard” | Meaning with “board” |
|---|---|---|
| Get aboard | To get on a ship or other mode of transportation | To add someone or something to a group or committee |
| Go aboard | To go onto a ship or other mode of transportation | To enter a building or other structure |
| Be aboard | To be on a ship or other mode of transportation | To be present or participating in an activity |
2. Idiomatic Expressions
There are some idiomatic expressions where the use of aboard or board is fixed and cannot be interchanged.
- “All aboard!” – a phrase used to signal that everyone should get on a train, bus, or ship
- “Across the board” – a phrase that means including everyone or everything
- “Above board” – a phrase that means honest and open
3. Regional Differences
In some regions, the use of aboard and board may differ from the standard rules. For example, in British English, aboard is more commonly used on ships, while board is more commonly used in other contexts. In American English, both aboard and board are used interchangeably in most contexts.
It’s important to be aware of these exceptions to the rules when using aboard and board in your writing or speech. By understanding the nuances of these words, you can communicate more effectively and avoid common mistakes.
Practice Exercises
One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of aboard and board is through practice exercises. Here are a few exercises to help you get started:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Fill in the blank with either aboard or board:
- The passengers were all _____ the ship before it set sail.
- The flight attendant welcomed us _____ the plane.
- He was invited to join the _____ of directors.
- We need to _____ up the windows before the storm hits.
- The team decided to _____ the project until next month.
Answer Key:
- aboard
- aboard
- board
- board
- postpone (Note: This is a trick question. Neither aboard nor board fits in this sentence.)
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct word to complete each sentence:
- She walked _____ the deck of the ship.
- a) aboard
- b) board
- a) aboard
- b) board
- a) aboard
- b) board
- a) aboard
- b) board
- a) aboard
- b) board
Answer Key:
- a) aboard
- a) aboard
- b) board
- b) board
- b) board
By completing exercises like these, you can improve your understanding and use of aboard and board in sentences. Keep practicing and soon you’ll be a pro!
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between aboard and board, it is clear that these two words have distinct meanings and uses in the English language. Aboard is used to describe being on or in a vehicle or vessel, while board is used to describe a flat surface or a group of people who govern or manage an organization.
It is important for writers and speakers to understand the nuances of these words in order to communicate effectively and avoid confusion. By using these words correctly, one can demonstrate a strong command of the English language and present themselves as a knowledgeable and competent communicator.
Key Takeaways
- Aboard refers to being on or in a vehicle or vessel.
- Board refers to a flat surface or a group of people who govern or manage an organization.
- Using these words correctly is important for effective communication.
By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, readers can improve their communication skills and present themselves as confident and capable communicators.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.