What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leaching
Example
The leaching of minerals from the soil is an important factor in plant growth. [leaching: noun]
Example
The rainwater leached the nutrients from the topsoil, making it more fertile. [leached: past tense verb]
percolation
Example
The percolation of water through the soil helps to recharge underground aquifers. [percolation: noun]
Example
The coffee maker uses a percolator to brew the coffee by passing hot water through the grounds. [percolator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leaching is more commonly used in scientific and technical contexts, while percolation is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in the context of coffee or tea brewing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leaching and percolation?
Leaching is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, while percolation is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.