What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cleanout
Example
I need to do a cleanout of my garage to make more space. [cleanout: noun]
Example
She spent the weekend cleanouting her closet and getting rid of old clothes. [cleanouting: gerund or present participle]
cleanup
Example
After the party, we had a big cleanup to do to get the house back in order. [cleanup: noun]
Example
He cleaned up the kitchen after cooking dinner. [cleaned: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cleanup is more commonly used than cleanout in everyday language. Cleanup is a versatile term that can be applied to various situations, while cleanout is less common and is typically used in specific contexts related to decluttering and organizing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cleanout and cleanup?
Both cleanout and cleanup can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, cleanup is more commonly used in professional settings, such as offices or workplaces, while cleanout is often used in casual or personal contexts.