A large land formation with steep sides is commonly referred to as a cliff or a mountain. Cliffs are vertical or near-vertical terrains, often formed through processes like erosion or faulting, while mountains are elevated landforms that rise prominently above the surrounding landscape. Mountains can have steep slopes and are usually formed through tectonic forces, volcanic activity, or sedimentation. Both of these land forms are characterized by their dramatic height and steep inclines, making them significant and recognizable features of the earth's geography.