Understanding the Distinctions Between Trawling and Trolling

Trawling vs. Trolling: What’s the Difference?

These two words, “trawling” and “trolling,” sound alike but have different meanings. Let’s learn what each word means and how to use them.

History

“Trawling” comes from fishing. It means to catch fish with a large net called a “trawl.” This word has been used for a long time, back when people mostly fished for food.

“Trolling” also comes from fishing. In fishing, it means to pull a hook and bait through the water behind a moving boat. But now, it’s often used to describe being mean or making people upset on the internet for fun.

How to Use Them

“Trawling” is used when talking about fishing or searching for something thoroughly. People trawl documents or files when they look through many of them.

“Trolling” is used for both fishing and on the internet. When used online, it means to say things that make people angry or upset just to get a reaction.

Trick to Remember the Difference

• Think of “trawling” like a net catching many fish.
• Think of “trolling” like a mean internet trick, like a troll under a bridge causing trouble.

Examples of “Trawling”

1. The fishermen went trawling for fish in the deep sea.
2. She was trawling through old photos to find one for her project.
3. The library staff spent the day trawling through books to find rare editions.
4. The teachers were trawling through artworks for the school art show.
5. The police were trawling through evidence to solve the crime.

Examples of “Trolling”

1. He was trolling for fish with a rod and bait.
2. Someone was trolling in the chat by posting silly messages.
3. She stopped trolling after realizing it was hurting others.
4. The kids were trolling each other with jokes and pranks.
5. On the internet, trolling can sometimes lead to arguments.

Summary

Trawling is about catching fish with a net and looking through many things carefully. Trolling can mean pulling bait in fishing or upsetting people online. Remember: “trawling” is like a big net, and “trolling” is like causing trouble under the bridge.