What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dripping
Example
The faucet was dripping all night, and now the sink is full of water. [dripping: verb]
Example
The rain was dripping from the roof, creating a soothing sound. [dripping: present participle]
Example
The roast beef was served with a side of dripping gravy. [dripping: noun]
drop
Example
A drop of water fell from the roof and landed on my head. [drop: noun]
Example
The temperature dropped suddenly, and we had to put on jackets. [drop: verb]
Example
The doctor prescribed me some eye drops to treat my infection. [drops: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drop is more commonly used than dripping in everyday language. Drop is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dripping is less common and often used in specific situations, such as describing a leak or a sound related to liquid.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dripping and drop?
Both dripping and drop are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
