What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trash
Example
Please take out the trash before it starts to smell. [trash: noun]
Example
The park was covered in trash after the concert. [trash: noun]
waste
Example
Don't waste your time on things that don't matter. [waste: verb]
Example
We need to reduce our waste and recycle more. [waste: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trash is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in the context of household or personal waste. Waste is more commonly used in formal or technical contexts, such as environmental or industrial settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between trash and waste?
Waste is generally considered more formal than trash, as it is often used in technical or scientific contexts. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
