What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
drinking
Example
I am drinking water to stay hydrated. [drinking: present participle]
Example
He enjoys drinking beer with his friends on the weekends. [drinking: gerund]
sipping
Example
She was sipping her tea while reading a book. [sipping: present participle]
Example
He took a sip of the wine to taste it. [sip: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drinking is a more common word than sipping in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations. However, sipping is more commonly used in formal or polite settings, such as at a fancy restaurant or tea party.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between drinking and sipping?
Sipping is generally considered more formal and polite than drinking, which can be associated with casual or informal situations. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context and setting.
