What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dig
Example
I need to dig a hole for this plant. [dig: verb]
Example
The archaeologist dug through layers of soil to find the ancient artifacts. [dug: past tense]
Example
He dug his hand into the sand to search for the lost ring. [dug: past participle]
excavate
Example
The construction crew excavated the site to prepare for the new building. [excavated: past tense]
Example
The archaeologists excavated the ancient ruins to learn more about the civilization. [excavated: past participle]
Example
The workers used heavy machinery to excavate the hillside for the new road. [excavate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dig is a more common term than excavate and is used in a wider range of contexts. Excavate is a more specialized term that is typically used in construction or research settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dig and excavate?
Excavate is generally considered more formal than dig, which is a more casual term. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.
