What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
irrigation
Example
The farmer installed an irrigation system to water his crops. [irrigation: noun]
Example
Irrigating the fields during a drought is essential for crop survival. [irrigating: gerund or present participle]
watering
Example
I need to do some watering in the garden this afternoon. [watering: noun]
Example
She was watering the flowers when I arrived. [watering: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Watering is more commonly used in everyday language than irrigation. Watering is a simple and versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while irrigation is more technical and specific to agriculture.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between irrigation and watering?
Irrigation is a more formal term than watering. It is often used in technical or academic contexts related to agriculture or engineering, while watering is more casual and can be used in everyday conversation.