What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smeared
Example
The paint was smeared all over the canvas. [smeared: verb]
Example
She smeared the lipstick all over her face. [smeared: past tense]
Example
His reputation was smeared by the false accusations. [smeared: past participle]
smudge
Example
There was a smudge on the window from someone's hand. [smudge: noun]
Example
She accidentally smudged the ink on the paper. [smudged: verb]
Example
The thief tried to smudge his fingerprints to avoid detection. [smudge: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smudge is more commonly used than smeared in everyday language. Smudge is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while smeared is less common and is typically associated with specific substances or situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between smeared and smudge?
Both smeared and smudge are informal words that can be used in casual conversation or writing. However, smeared may be more appropriate in situations where a negative or critical tone is needed, while smudge can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
