Differences between wash away and wash off
Wash away means to remove something completely with water or another liquid, while wash off means to remove something from the surface of an object with water or another liquid.
Meanings and Definitions: wash away vs wash off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Wash off
- 1To remove something by washing.
Don’t worry about the dirty marks. They’ll wash off easily.
- 2To remove by washing.
Wash all the soil off before you cook the potatoes.
Usage Examples: wash away, wash off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
wash away
Example
The heavy rain might wash away the sandcastle we built.
Example
The river washes away soil from the riverbank during floods.
wash off
Example
I need to wash off the dirt from my shoes.
Example
She washes off her makeup before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wash away
To clean something completely and remove all dirt or impurities.
Example
She used a special soap to cleanse her face thoroughly and remove all the makeup.
To remove or get rid of something entirely.
Example
The new detergent eliminates stains completely and leaves clothes smelling fresh.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wash off
Differences in wash away vs wash off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: wash away or wash off?
Both wash away and wash off are commonly used in daily conversation. However, wash off is more frequently used in everyday situations such as washing dirt off hands or removing makeup, while wash away is used for more significant tasks such as cleaning a dirty sidewalk or removing a stain from clothing.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of wash away and wash off
Both wash away and wash off are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. They are not typically used in formal settings like business or academic contexts. In such situations, it's better to use more formal expressions.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of wash away and wash off
The tone of wash away and wash off can differ based on context. Wash away often carries a sense of relief or satisfaction when referring to removing something completely, while wash off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to removing dirt or grime from the body or objects.
