What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stretch
Example
I like to stretch before exercising to avoid injury. [stretch: verb]
Example
The cat stretched its paws out lazily. [stretched: past tense]
Example
We need to stretch our budget to cover all the expenses this month. [stretch: verb]
spread
Example
She spread the blanket on the grass for a picnic. [spread: verb]
Example
The news of the accident quickly spread throughout the town. [spread: verb]
Example
The company plans to spread its operations to other countries. [spread: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spread is more commonly used than stretch in everyday language, as it has a wider range of contexts and applications. Stretch is more specific and often used in physical or personal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between stretch and spread?
Both stretch and spread can be used in formal and informal contexts, but spread is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.