What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decaying
Example
The decaying leaves on the forest floor provide nutrients for the soil. [decaying: adjective]
Example
The old building showed signs of decaying due to years of neglect. [decaying: present participle]
rotting
Example
The fruit was left out for too long and started rotting. [rotting: present participle]
Example
The abandoned house had a strong smell of rotting wood and mold. [rotting: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rotting is more commonly used than decaying in everyday language, especially in contexts related to food or household items. Decaying is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between decaying and rotting?
Decaying is more formal than rotting, which is more casual and colloquial in nature.
