What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
collide
Example
The car collided with the truck at the intersection. [collided: past tense]
Example
The soccer players collided while going for the ball. [collided: verb]
smash
Example
He accidentally smashed the glass on the floor. [smashed: past tense]
Example
The waves were so powerful that they smashed against the rocks. [smashed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Collide is more commonly used than smash in everyday language. Collide is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while smash is more specific and often associated with destruction or violence.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between collide and smash?
Both collide and smash can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, collide is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of situations, while smash may carry a slightly more intense or dramatic tone.