What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
separating
Example
I am separating the laundry into whites and colors. [separating: present participle]
Example
The fence is separating the two properties. [separating: verb]
splitting
Example
She is splitting the cake into equal portions. [splitting: present participle]
Example
The wood was splitting due to the pressure. [splitting: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Separating and splitting are both commonly used in everyday language, but separating is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, while splitting is more specific and often used in situations where force or pressure is involved.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between separating and splitting?
Both separating and splitting can be used in formal and informal contexts, but separating is generally considered more formal due to its precision and care, while splitting can be more informal due to its forceful or abrupt nature.