What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
patchy
Example
The paint job on the wall was patchy and uneven. [patchy: adjective]
Example
The team's performance was patchy throughout the season, with some wins and some losses. [patchy: adjective]
spotty
Example
The dog's fur was spotty with black and white patches. [spotty: adjective]
Example
The internet connection was spotty, with frequent interruptions and slow speeds. [spotty: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spotty is more commonly used than patchy in everyday language. Spotty is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while patchy is less common and often used in specific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between patchy and spotty?
Both patchy and spotty are informal words that are appropriate for casual conversation or writing. Neither word is particularly formal or academic.
