What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spoil
Example
Don't spoil your dinner by eating too many snacks. [spoil: verb]
Example
The child was spoiled by his grandparents with gifts and treats. [spoiled: past participle]
Example
The milk has spoiled and is no longer safe to drink. [spoiled: past participle]
ruin
Example
The storm ruined our picnic plans. [ruined: past tense]
Example
His addiction to gambling ruined his life. [ruined: past participle]
Example
The old castle is in ruins after years of neglect. [ruins: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruin is more commonly used than spoil in everyday language. Ruin is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while spoil is less common and often used in specific contexts such as food or children.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between spoil and ruin?
Both spoil and ruin are informal words, but ruin can also be used in formal contexts when referring to buildings or places that have fallen into disrepair or decay.
