What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leach
Example
The rainwater leached the nutrients from the soil. [leached: past tense]
Example
The toxic chemicals leached into the groundwater, contaminating the nearby wells. [leach: verb]
seep
Example
Water seeped through the cracks in the wall, causing damage to the structure. [seeped: past tense]
Example
The oil was seeping out of the barrel, creating a hazardous situation. [seeping: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seep is more commonly used than leach in everyday language. Seep is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while leach is less common and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leach and seep?
Both leach and seep are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
