What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cream
Example
She applied the cream to her dry skin. [cream: noun]
Example
The recipe called for heavy cream. [cream: noun]
Example
The doctor prescribed a cream for his rash. [cream: noun]
lotion
Example
She applied lotion to her hands after washing them. [lotion: noun]
Example
He used lotion to clean his leather shoes. [lotion: noun]
Example
The nurse applied lotion to the patient's skin to soothe the irritation. [lotion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lotion is more commonly used than cream in everyday language. Lotion is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cream is less common and refers to a thicker substance used for specific purposes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cream and lotion?
Both cream and lotion can be used in formal and informal contexts, but cream may be associated with a more formal tone due to its use in medical and cosmetic contexts.
