What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
torching
Example
The protesters were torching cars and buildings in the streets. [torching: verb]
Example
The firefighters were torching the dry grass to prevent the spread of the wildfire. [torching: gerund or present participle]
burning
Example
The house was burning down to the ground. [burning: verb]
Example
She accidentally touched the hot stove and felt a burning sensation on her hand. [burning: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Burning is more commonly used than torching in everyday language. Burning is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while torching is less common and often associated with negative or violent actions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between torching and burning?
While burning can be used in both formal and informal contexts, torching is typically associated with a more informal or even criminal tone, making it less appropriate for formal situations.
