What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cleaned
Example
She cleaned the kitchen thoroughly before starting to cook. [cleaned: past tense]
Example
I need to clean my room before my friends come over. [clean: verb]
washed
Example
He washed his hands before sitting down for dinner. [washed: past tense]
Example
I need to wash my clothes because they are dirty. [wash: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cleaned and washed are both commonly used in everyday language, but cleaned is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, while washed is more specific to cleaning with water and soap.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cleaned and washed?
Both cleaned and washed can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making them suitable for various levels of formality.
