What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ooze
Example
The honey oozed out of the jar slowly. [oozed: verb]
Example
The wound was oozing pus, indicating an infection. [oozing: gerund or present participle]
seep
Example
Water seeped through the cracks in the wall during the rainstorm. [seeped: verb]
Example
The oil spill caused the toxic substance to seep into the ground, contaminating the soil. [seep: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seep is more commonly used than ooze in everyday language. Seep is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while ooze is less common and has more specific connotations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ooze and seep?
Both ooze and seep are relatively informal words and can be used in casual or formal contexts.