What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bobbing
Example
The ducks were bobbing in the pond, diving for food. [bobbing: present participle]
Example
She bobbed her head to the beat of the music. [bobbed: past tense]
dipping
Example
He was dipping his brush into the paint to get the right color. [dipping: present participle]
Example
She dipped her toe into the pool to test the water temperature. [dipped: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dipping is more commonly used than bobbing in everyday language. Dipping has a broader range of applications and can be used in various contexts, such as cooking, testing, or sampling. Bobbing, on the other hand, is less common and is mostly used in specific situations, such as describing movements in water or rhythmic actions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bobbing and dipping?
Both bobbing and dipping are relatively informal words. However, dipping can be used in more formal contexts, such as cooking or scientific experiments, while bobbing is generally more casual and associated with leisure or playful activities.
