Carry vs. Transport: What's the Difference?

The words "carry" and "transport" are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in their meanings. "Carry" usually refers to moving something with your hands, arms, or body. Think of carrying a bag of groceries or carrying a baby. "Transport," on the other hand, is a more general term that encompasses moving something from one place to another, often using a vehicle or other means. You might transport goods by truck or transport people by bus. While you can carry a small, light object a short distance, transport often involves larger items, longer distances, or a more complex process.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

  • Carry: I carry my backpack to school every day. (Meaning: I move my backpack using my body)

  • Transport: The company transports goods across the country. (Meaning: The company moves goods using vehicles or other means)

  • Carry: She carefully carried the fragile vase. (Meaning: She moved the vase using her hands)

  • Transport: The train transports passengers between the two cities. (Meaning: The train moves passengers from one city to another)

  • Carry: Can you carry this box for me? (Meaning: Can you move this box using your body?)

  • Transport: We need to transport all the furniture to our new house. (Meaning: We need to move all the furniture to our new house using a suitable means of transportation)

  • Carry: The bird carries twigs to its nest. (Meaning: The bird moves twigs using its beak and claws.)

  • Transport: The ship transports oil across the ocean. (Meaning: The ship moves oil from one place to another across the ocean.)

Notice how "carry" is often a more personal and direct action, involving physical handling, whereas "transport" implies a more organized and potentially large-scale movement of goods or people.

Happy learning!

Learn English with Images

With over 120,000 photos and illustrations