What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vacuuming
Example
I need to vacuum the living room before our guests arrive. [vacuum: verb]
Example
Vacuuming is a great way to get rid of pet hair from carpets. [vacuuming: gerund or present participle]
sweeping
Example
I swept the porch after the leaves fell from the trees. [swept: past tense]
Example
Sweeping the kitchen floor is part of my daily routine. [sweeping: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sweeping is more commonly used than vacuuming in everyday language. Sweeping is a simple and quick cleaning method that can be done manually without electricity, making it accessible to everyone. Vacuuming is less common and requires a vacuum cleaner, which not everyone may have.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between vacuuming and sweeping?
Both vacuuming and sweeping are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, vacuuming may be associated with a more modern and technological tone, while sweeping may be associated with a more traditional and manual approach.
