What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oil
Example
I need to change the oil in my car. [oil: noun]
Example
The chef drizzled olive oil over the salad. [oil: noun]
Example
She applied some oil to her dry skin. [oil: noun]
grease
Example
The mechanic applied grease to the gears to reduce friction. [grease: noun]
Example
The cook added some bacon grease to the pan. [grease: noun]
Example
The oven was covered in grease from months of use. [grease: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oil is more commonly used in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts, while grease is more technical and specific to certain industries or situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oil and grease?
Oil is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while grease is more technical and specific to certain industries or situations, making it more formal in nature.