What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
moldy
Example
I had to throw away the bread because it was moldy. [moldy: adjective]
Example
The basement smelled musty and had moldy walls. [moldy: adjective]
spoiled
Example
The milk has spoiled, so we can't use it anymore. [spoiled: verb]
Example
The spoiled child threw a tantrum when he didn't get what he wanted. [spoiled: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spoiled is more commonly used than moldy in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe both people and things. Moldy is less common and is typically used to describe food or other organic matter that has been contaminated by mold.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between moldy and spoiled?
Both moldy and spoiled are informal words that are commonly used in everyday language. However, spoiled can also be used in formal contexts to describe a situation or event that has been negatively affected.
