What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flush
Example
Please flush the toilet after use. [flush: verb]
Example
She felt a flush of embarrassment when she realized her mistake. [flush: noun]
rinse
Example
Rinse the dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. [rinse: verb]
Example
After brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth with water. [rinse: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rinse is more commonly used than flush in everyday language. Rinse is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while flush is less common and is mostly used in the context of toilets and drains.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between flush and rinse?
Both flush and rinse are relatively informal words, but rinse can be used in more formal contexts, such as in the context of personal hygiene or cleaning instructions.
