What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
staining
Example
He spent the weekend staining the deck to protect it from the elements. [staining: verb]
Example
The red wine stain on her white shirt was difficult to remove. [stain: noun]
Example
The biologist used a special dye to stain the cells for better visibility under the microscope. [staining: gerund]
coloring
Example
She enjoyed coloring with her daughter on rainy days. [coloring: verb]
Example
The children were given coloring books and crayons to keep them entertained. [coloring: noun]
Example
Her hair had a natural reddish coloring that she inherited from her mother. [coloring: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Coloring is more commonly used than staining in everyday language. Coloring is a common activity for children and is often used in art or design. Staining is less common and is usually associated with home improvement or woodworking.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between staining and coloring?
Both staining and coloring can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the context and purpose. However, staining may be more commonly used in technical or specialized fields, such as woodworking or biology, while coloring is more commonly used in art or design.
