What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
polishing
Example
I spent hours polishing my grandmother's silverware until it shone like new. [polishing: gerund]
Example
The author spent months polishing their manuscript before submitting it for publication. [polishing: present participle]
refining
Example
The oil industry is constantly refining its processes to reduce environmental impact. [refining: present participle]
Example
The chef spent hours refining the recipe until it was just right. [refining: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Polishing and refining are both commonly used words in various contexts, but polishing is more commonly associated with creative fields such as art, design, or writing, while refining is more commonly associated with technical fields such as engineering, science, or manufacturing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between polishing and refining?
Refining is generally considered more formal than polishing, as it is often used in technical or professional contexts where precision and accuracy are important. However, both words can be used in formal or informal settings depending on the context and tone of the communication.
