What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
steep
Example
I like to steep my tea for at least five minutes to get a strong flavor. [steep: verb]
Example
The mountain trail was steep and challenging to hike. [steep: adjective]
infuse
Example
I like to infuse my water with lemon and mint for a refreshing drink. [infuse: verb]
Example
The artist's work was infused with a sense of melancholy and nostalgia. [infused: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Steep and infuse are both commonly used in cooking and beverage-making. However, steep is more commonly used for tea, coffee, or herbs, while infuse can be used for a wider range of ingredients and applications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between steep and infuse?
Both steep and infuse can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, infuse may be perceived as more creative and experimental, making it more suitable for informal or artistic settings.
