What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spackled
Example
I spackled the nail holes in the wall before painting it. [spackled: past tense]
Example
The painter used spackle to fill in the cracks on the ceiling. [spackle: noun]
patched
Example
She patched the hole in her jeans with a piece of denim. [patched: past tense]
Example
The contractor patched the damaged drywall with a piece of plasterboard. [patched: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Patch is more commonly used than spackle in everyday language. Patch is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while spackle is less common and refers specifically to repairing small holes or cracks in walls or ceilings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spackled and patched?
Both spackle and patch are considered informal terms and are commonly used in DIY projects or casual conversations. However, patch can be used in more formal contexts when referring to repairing larger damages on surfaces or objects.
