Differences between mop up and stop up
Mop up means to clean or dry a surface with a mop or cloth, while stop up means to block or seal an opening or passage.
Meanings and Definitions: mop up vs stop up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Mop up
- 1Resolve a problem.
He was left to MOP UP the mess after they resigned.
- 2Kill or capture the last few enemy soldiers after a victory..
After the battle, it took them a couple of weeks to MOP UP the remaining rebels.
- 3Eat a sauce with bread to finish it.
The sauce was so delicious that I ordered some bread to MOP it UP.
- 4Remove a liquid that has been spilt.
I used a cloth to MOP UP the coffee I had knocked over.
Stop up
- 1Stay up late.
I STOPPED UP last night watching the film.
- 2Fill or block something.
I STOPPED UP the bottle with a cork.
Usage Examples: mop up, stop up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
mop up
Example
I need to mop up the water on the floor.
Example
She mops up the spilled juice quickly.
stop up
Example
She needs to stop up the hole in the wall.
Example
He stops up the sink when he washes the dishes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Mop up
soak up
To absorb or take in liquid with a sponge or cloth.
Example
She used a towel to soak up the spilled milk on the floor.
clean up
To tidy or remove dirt or mess from a surface or area.
Example
He had to clean up the spilled paint before it dried on the carpet.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stop up
plug up
To block or seal an opening or passage with a plug or stopper.
Example
He had to plug up the leak in the roof to prevent water from coming in.
clog up
To obstruct or block a passage or pipe with debris or material.
Example
The drain was clogged up with hair and soap scum, so he had to use a plunger to clear it.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “stop”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in mop up vs stop up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: mop up or stop up?
In daily conversation, people use mop up more often than stop up. This is because mop up is used for more routine tasks such as cleaning spills or drying surfaces. Stop up is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about blocking something like a drain or a hole. So, while both phrases are used, mop up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of mop up and stop up
Mop up and stop up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of mop up and stop up
The tone of mop up and stop up can differ based on context. Mop up often carries a practical or urgent tone when related to cleaning or drying, while stop up typically has a preventative or problem-solving tone, especially when referring to blocking or sealing openings or passages.
