What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
percolated
Example
The coffee percolated through the filter and into the pot. [percolated: past tense]
Example
The water percolated down through the soil and reached the roots. [percolated: verb]
seep
Example
Water seeped through the crack in the wall and caused damage. [seeped: past tense]
Example
The oil seeped out of the container and onto the floor. [seeped: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seep is more commonly used than percolate in everyday language. Seep is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while percolate is less common and is mostly used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between percolated and seep?
Percolate is typically associated with a more formal tone, while seep is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
