What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dot
Example
She put a dot on the map to mark the location of the restaurant. [dot: noun]
Example
Don't forget to put a period at the end of your sentence. [period: synonym for dot as a punctuation mark]
Example
The scientist observed the tiny dots under the microscope. [dots: plural noun]
spot
Example
Let's have a picnic at that spot by the lake. [spot: noun]
Example
I accidentally spilled coffee on my shirt and now there's a spot. [spot: noun]
Example
The birdwatcher spotted a rare species in the tree. [spotted: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spot is more commonly used than dot in everyday language. Spot is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dot is less common and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dot and spot?
Both dot and spot are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
