What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sink
Example
I need to wash my hands in the sink. [sink: noun]
Example
The ship began to sink after hitting an iceberg. [sink: verb]
Example
The water is not draining properly in the sink. [sink: noun]
basin
Example
The basin was filled with warm soapy water for washing dishes. [basin: noun]
Example
The Amazon Basin is home to many unique species of plants and animals. [basin: noun]
Example
The Mississippi River basin covers a large area of the United States. [basin: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sink is more commonly used than basin in everyday language, especially in American English. Basin is more formal and less common, often used in technical or scientific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sink and basin?
While sink is associated with a casual and informal tone, basin is more formal and less common, often used in technical or scientific contexts.
