What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grow
Example
The tree grew taller each year. [grow: verb]
Example
Children grow quickly during their first few years of life. [grow: verb]
Example
The farmer grows corn and wheat on his land. [grows: verb]
develop
Example
She developed a passion for music at a young age. [developed: verb]
Example
The company is developing a new software program. [developing: present participle]
Example
The theory of evolution developed over many years of scientific research. [developed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grow is more common than develop in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, develop is more common in technical or professional contexts, such as business or technology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grow and develop?
Develop is generally considered more formal than grow, as it is often used in technical or professional contexts. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.
