What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sanding
Example
He spent the afternoon sanding the wooden deck. [sanding: gerund or present participle]
Example
The furniture needs sanding before we can paint it. [sanding: noun]
buffing
Example
After sanding the car, he buffed it to a high shine. [buffed: past tense]
Example
The floors need buffing to remove the scuff marks. [buffing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sanding is more commonly used than buffing in everyday language, especially in DIY projects and woodworking. Buffing is more commonly used in the automotive and metalworking industries.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sanding and buffing?
Both sanding and buffing are technical terms and are used in formal contexts such as professional workshops and manufacturing industries. However, buffing may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with high-end finishes and polishing techniques.
