What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squash
Example
She accidentally squashed the cake while trying to put it in the fridge. [squashed: past tense]
Example
Let's play squash this weekend at the club. [squash: noun]
Example
I like to add some squash to my soup for extra flavor. [squash: noun]
crush
Example
He accidentally crushed the glass bottle with his foot. [crushed: past tense]
Example
She had a crush on her coworker for months before confessing her feelings. [crush: noun]
Example
The army was able to crush the rebellion within a few weeks. [crush: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crush is more commonly used than squash in everyday language, especially in the context of romantic or emotional feelings. Squash is less common and has alternative meanings that may not be familiar to non-native speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squash and crush?
Both squash and crush can be used in formal and informal contexts, but crush may be more informal when referring to romantic or emotional feelings.
