What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dip
Example
She dipped her toe in the pool to test the water temperature. [dipped: past tense]
Example
The stock market experienced a dip in prices this week. [dip: noun]
Example
He made a quick dip to avoid the incoming ball. [dip: noun]
plunge
Example
She plunged into the icy water and gasped for air. [plunged: past tense]
Example
The company's profits took a plunge after the scandal. [plunge: noun]
Example
The rollercoaster plunged down the steep slope at breakneck speed. [plunged: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dip is more common than plunge in everyday language. Dip is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while plunge is less common and typically used in more formal or dramatic situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dip and plunge?
Plunge is more formal than dip. It is often used in serious or dramatic contexts, such as financial reports, news headlines, or literary works. Dip, on the other hand, is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
