Differences between sweep away and wash away
Sweep away means to remove something completely, usually with a sweeping motion, while wash away means to remove something by washing it with water or another liquid.
Meanings and Definitions: sweep away vs wash away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Sweep away
- 1To become completely absorbed or carried away by something.
I got quite swept away with the spirit of the moment.
- 2To completely remove or destroy something, especially with force or speed.
Many people died when floods swept their homes away.
Wash away
- 1When floods or waves completely remove a structure, building, etc..
The ice cream stall on the beach was WASHED AWAY in the storm last night.
Usage Examples: sweep away, wash away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
sweep away
Example
The strong wind swept away the leaves from the sidewalk.
Example
She sweeps away the dust from the floor every day.
wash away
Example
The heavy rain might wash away the sandcastle we built.
Example
The river washes away soil from the riverbank during floods.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sweep away
To completely destroy or eliminate something, especially a problem or disease.
Example
The government launched a campaign to eradicate poverty in the country within the next decade.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wash away
To clean or purify something by washing it with water or another liquid.
Example
She used a special face wash to cleanse her skin and remove all the dirt and oil.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “sweep”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in sweep away vs wash away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: sweep away or wash away?
Both sweep away and wash away are commonly used in everyday conversation, but wash away is slightly more common. This is because it can be used in a wider range of contexts, such as cleaning or weather-related events.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sweep away and wash away
Both sweep away and wash away are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, wash away may be slightly more formal than sweep away when used in certain contexts, such as discussing cleaning or environmental issues.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of sweep away and wash away
The tone of sweep away and wash away can differ based on context. Sweep away often carries a forceful or determined tone when referring to removing something completely, while wash away typically has a gentle or calming tone, especially when referring to natural events like rain or waves.
