What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coated
Example
The metal was coated with a layer of rust. [coated: past participle]
Example
The cake was coated in a smooth layer of icing. [coated: verb]
covered
Example
She covered the furniture with a blanket to protect it from dust. [covered: verb]
Example
The mountain tops were covered in snow. [covered: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Covered is more commonly used than coated in everyday language. Covered is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of situations, while coated is more specific and often used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coated and covered?
While covered can be used in both formal and informal contexts, coated is generally associated with a more technical or specialized tone, making it more suitable for formal or professional settings.