What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
blotch
Example
There was a big blotch of paint on the wall. [blotch: noun]
Example
Her face had a red blotch after being out in the sun. [blotch: noun]
Example
The ink blotched the paper, leaving a messy mark. [blotched: past tense verb]
stain
Example
She spilled coffee on her shirt and now there's a stain. [stain: noun]
Example
The red wine stained the white tablecloth. [stained: past tense verb]
Example
Brushing your teeth regularly can help prevent tooth stains. [stains: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stain is more commonly used than blotch in everyday language. Stain is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while blotch is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between blotch and stain?
Both blotch and stain can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, stain is more commonly used and is generally considered more formal than blotch.
