What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scrubbing
Example
She spent hours scrubbing the kitchen floor until it was spotless. [scrubbing: gerund or present participle]
Example
He used a scrubbing brush to clean the tiles in the bathroom. [scrubbing: noun]
washing
Example
I need to wash my hands before dinner. [wash: verb]
Example
She put the dirty clothes in the washing machine. [washing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Washing is more commonly used than scrubbing in everyday language. Washing is a versatile term that can be used for cleaning various surfaces and objects, while scrubbing is less common and is typically associated with cleaning hard surfaces like floors and walls.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between scrubbing and washing?
Both scrubbing and washing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but washing is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.