What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
molds
Example
The bread had green molds growing on it. [molds: noun]
Example
She poured the melted chocolate into the heart-shaped mold. [mold: noun]
Example
He created a mold of his hand by pressing it into the clay. [mold: noun]
mildew
Example
The shower curtain was covered in black mildew spots. [mildew: noun]
Example
The basement had a strong mildew smell due to the dampness. [mildew: noun]
Example
The damp weather caused mildew to grow on the leather jacket. [mildew: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mold is more commonly used than mildew in everyday language, especially when referring to the fungus. However, mildew is more commonly used when referring to the discoloration or odor caused by dampness.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between molds and mildew?
Both mold and mildew are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversations or writing. However, when referring to the scientific classification of fungi, mold is more formal than mildew.
