What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
descaling
Example
I need to descale my coffee maker because it's not brewing properly. [descaling: verb]
Example
The bathroom tiles are covered in hard water stains, so I'm going to descale them. [descaling: gerund or present participle]
clean
Example
I need to clean the kitchen before our guests arrive. [clean: verb]
Example
The clothes are dirty, so I need to wash them to get them clean. [clean: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clean is a more common word than descaling in everyday language, as it covers a broader range of contexts and is used more frequently in daily life.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between descaling and clean?
Both descaling and cleaning can be used in formal and informal contexts, but descaling may be considered more technical or specialized due to its association with specific appliances and mineral buildup.
