What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bathing
Example
I enjoy bathing in a hot tub after a long day at work. [bathing: gerund or present participle]
Example
She gave her dog a bath in the backyard using a hose. [bath: noun]
swimming
Example
I learned how to swim when I was five years old. [swim: verb]
Example
We went swimming at the beach and had a great time. [swimming: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swimming is more commonly used than bathing in everyday language. Swimming is a popular activity worldwide and is often associated with pools, beaches, and water sports. Bathing is more specific to the act of cleaning oneself or immersing in water for relaxation purposes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bathing and swimming?
While bathing is commonly used in informal contexts, swimming can be used in both formal and informal settings. Swimming is a recognized sport and can be discussed in various formal situations, such as competitions or swimming lessons.
