What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dyed
Example
She dyed her hair blonde for the summer. [dyed: verb]
Example
The shirt was dyed blue and cannot be changed back to its original color. [dyed: past participle]
stained
Example
The red wine stained the white tablecloth. [stained: verb]
Example
The wood was stained with a dark finish to match the other furniture. [stained: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dyed is more commonly used than stained in everyday language. Dyed is a more versatile term and can be used in various contexts, while stained is more specific and often used in the context of wood and other surfaces.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dyed and stained?
While dyed is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, stained is more formal and often used in technical or professional contexts.