What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
circulated
Example
The teacher circulated the handouts to all the students. [circulated: past tense]
Example
The memo was circulated among the staff for review. [circulated: verb]
spread
Example
She spread the blanket on the grass for a picnic. [spread: past tense]
Example
The virus quickly spread throughout the community. [spread: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spread is more commonly used than circulated in everyday language. Spread is a versatile word that can be applied to various contexts, such as the spread of diseases, ideas, rumors, or substances. On the other hand, circulated is less common and is typically used in more specific or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between circulated and spread?
While circulated is associated with a more formal or professional tone, spread can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible and widely applicable word.
