What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wellspring
Example
The wellspring in the village provides clean drinking water for the residents. [wellspring: noun]
Example
Her passion for music was the wellspring of her creativity. [wellspring: metaphorical]
spring
Example
The flowers bloom in the spring. [spring: noun]
Example
The cat sprang onto the table to catch the mouse. [sprang: past tense of spring]
Example
The hiker found a natural spring in the forest. [spring: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spring is a more commonly used word than wellspring in everyday language. Spring is a versatile word with multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts, while wellspring is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wellspring and spring?
Wellspring is a more formal word than spring. It is often used in academic or literary contexts to describe a fundamental or primary source of something, while spring is a versatile word used in both formal and informal contexts.