What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
patina
Example
The statue had developed a beautiful patina over the years. [patina: noun]
Example
The artist used a special technique to create a patina on the surface of the painting. [patina: adjective]
tarnish
Example
The silverware had tarnished from being stored in a damp environment. [tarnished: verb]
Example
The antique mirror had lost its shine due to years of neglect and tarnish. [tarnish: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tarnish is more commonly used than patina in everyday language, as it is a more common occurrence and generally considered undesirable. Patina is less common but is often used in art and design contexts to describe intentional aging or distressing of an object for aesthetic purposes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between patina and tarnish?
Both patina and tarnish can be used in formal and informal contexts, but patina may be more commonly used in artistic or design-related fields, while tarnish is more commonly used in everyday language to describe the deterioration or damage of an object.
