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 needs to be fixed. [leaking: present participle]
Example
The boat was taking on water and leaking badly. [leaking: gerund]
oozing
Example
The honey was oozing out of the jar. [oozing: present participle]
Example
The wound was oozing pus and needed medical attention. [oozing: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leaking is more commonly used than oozing in everyday language. Leaking is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while oozing is less common and more specific in its usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between leaking and oozing?
Both leaking and oozing are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.