What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leaking
Example
The faucet is leaking, and we need to fix it. [leaking: verb]
Example
The roof is leaking, and water is coming into the house. [leaking: present participle]
dripping
Example
The ice cream is dripping down the cone. [dripping: present participle]
Example
The faucet is dripping, and we need to fix it. [dripping: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leaking is more commonly used than dripping in everyday language, especially when referring to pipes or containers. Dripping is less common and is often used in specific contexts, such as describing the falling of liquid from a surface or object.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between leaking and dripping?
Leaking is generally considered more formal than dripping, which is often used in informal contexts. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.