What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grubbing
Example
The construction crew spent the morning grubbing out the tree stumps. [grubbing: present participle]
Example
Grubbing is an essential step in preparing the land for building. [grubbing: noun]
excavation
Example
The excavation of the site revealed ancient pottery and tools. [excavation: noun]
Example
The construction company hired an excavator to dig the foundation for the new building. [excavator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excavation is a more common term than grubbing in everyday language, especially in the context of construction and mining. Grubbing is a more specialized term that is mainly used in the context of forestry and landscaping.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grubbing and excavation?
Excavation is a more formal term than grubbing, which is a more casual and colloquial term. However, both terms can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and audience.