What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dye
Example
She decided to dye her hair blonde. [dye: verb]
Example
The fabric was soaked in blue dye to give it a vibrant color. [dye: noun]
stain
Example
The red wine stain on the carpet was difficult to remove. [stain: noun]
Example
He accidentally stained his shirt with coffee. [stained: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stain is more commonly used than dye in everyday language. Stain is a common occurrence in daily life, while dye is more specific to certain contexts, such as hair coloring or fabric dyeing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dye and stain?
Both dye and stain can be used in formal and informal contexts, but dye may be more commonly used in professional or technical settings due to its specific chemical processes.
