What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scrub
Example
I need to scrub the bathtub to get rid of the grime. [scrub: verb]
Example
She scrubbed the stain on her shirt until it came out. [scrubbed: past tense]
wash
Example
I need to wash my hands before dinner. [wash: verb]
Example
She washed the dishes after dinner. [washed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wash is more commonly used than scrub in everyday language. Wash is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while scrub is less common and often used in specific situations that require more effort.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scrub and wash?
Both scrub and wash can be used in various formality levels, but wash is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, making it more appropriate for general use.