What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bask
Example
Let's find a sunny spot on the beach and bask in the warm sunshine. [bask: verb]
Example
The cat loves to bask in the sunlight streaming through the window. [basking: gerund or present participle]
sunbathe
Example
I like to sunbathe by the pool to get a nice tan. [sunbathe: verb]
Example
She spent the afternoon sunbathing on the beach, reading a book. [sunbathing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sunbathe is more commonly used than bask when referring to the activity of spending time in the sun for the purpose of tanning. Bask is a less common word that is used in a broader sense to describe enjoying the warmth of the sun or a pleasant environment.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bask and sunbathe?
Both bask and sunbathe are generally informal words. However, sunbathe may be slightly more formal as it is a specific term used in the context of tanning.
