What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cultivate
Example
The farmer cultivated the land to grow crops. [cultivate: verb]
Example
She worked hard to cultivate a good relationship with her new boss. [cultivate: verb]
Example
He cultivated an interest in photography by taking classes and practicing. [cultivated: past participle]
develop
Example
The child is developing their language skills quickly. [developing: present participle]
Example
The company is working to develop a new product line. [develop: verb]
Example
She developed a new theory based on her research findings. [developed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Develop is more commonly used than cultivate in everyday language. Develop is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cultivate is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cultivate and develop?
Both cultivate and develop can be used in formal and informal contexts, but develop may be more commonly used in professional or academic settings due to its broader application.
