What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sculpting
Example
The artist spent months sculpting the statue out of marble. [sculpting: verb]
Example
Sculpting requires patience, precision, and skill. [sculpting: gerund or present participle]
shaping
Example
The potter is shaping the clay into a vase. [shaping: verb]
Example
Shaping the dough into a perfect circle takes practice. [shaping: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shaping is more commonly used than sculpting in everyday language. Shaping is a versatile term that can be applied to a wide range of contexts, from fashion design to woodworking, while sculpting is a more specialized term that is primarily used in the context of creating art pieces.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sculpting and shaping?
Both sculpting and shaping can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the context and audience. However, sculpting may be perceived as more formal due to its association with fine art and sculpture.
