What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
slather
Example
I like to slather my toast with peanut butter. [slather: verb]
Example
She slathered on sunscreen before going to the beach. [slathered: past tense]
spread
Example
Can you spread some butter on my toast? [spread: verb]
Example
The virus spread quickly throughout the community. [spread: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spread is more commonly used than slather in everyday language. Spread is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while slather is less common and often used in the context of indulgence or luxury.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between slather and spread?
Both slather and spread are relatively informal words, but spread is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while slather is more commonly used in casual or playful language.
