What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leak
Example
The roof is leaking and needs to be repaired. [leaking: present participle]
Example
The company's financial information was leaked to the press. [leaked: past tense]
seep
Example
Water seeped through the cracks in the wall. [seeped: past tense]
Example
The news of the tragedy began to seep into the community. [seep: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leak is more commonly used than seep in everyday language, especially in the context of plumbing or mechanical systems. Seep is less common but can be used in various contexts, such as describing the gradual spread of knowledge or ideas.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leak and seep?
Both leak and seep can be used in formal and informal contexts, but leak is often associated with technical or specialized language, while seep is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
