What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smudge
Example
She accidentally smudged her lipstick on the napkin. [smudged: past tense]
Example
The ink on the paper smudged when it got wet. [smudged: verb]
spot
Example
There was a spot of ketchup on his shirt. [spot: noun]
Example
I spotted my friend in the crowd at the concert. [spotted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spot is more commonly used than smudge in everyday language. Spot is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while smudge is less common and is mostly used to describe a dirty or messy surface.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between smudge and spot?
Both smudge and spot are neutral words that can be used in formal or informal contexts without sounding too casual or too formal.
