What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smoothening
Example
The carpenter is smoothening the edges of the wooden table. [smoothening: present participle]
Example
The painter used sandpaper to smoothen the rough spots on the wall. [smoothen: verb]
polishing
Example
She spent hours polishing her silverware until it shone like new. [polishing: gerund]
Example
The car mechanic polished the headlights to remove the foggy appearance. [polished: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Polishing is more commonly used than smoothening in everyday language. Polishing is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, such as polishing shoes, jewelry, or furniture. Smoothening, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between smoothening and polishing?
Polishing is generally considered a more formal term than smoothening. Polishing is often associated with luxury items or high-end finishes, while smoothening is more commonly used in technical or industrial settings.
