What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wiper
Example
The wiper on my car is not working properly. [wiper: noun]
Example
I need a wiper to dry the table after cleaning it. [wiper: tool]
Example
The wiper at the restaurant was wiping the windows clean. [wiper: person]
swab
Example
The nurse used a swab to collect a sample from the patient's throat. [swab: noun]
Example
I need a swab to apply the ointment to my wound. [swab: tool]
Example
The technician swabbed the surface with alcohol to disinfect it. [swabbed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wiper is more commonly used than swab in everyday language, especially in the context of automotive or industrial settings. Swab is more specialized and primarily used in medical or laboratory settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wiper and swab?
Swab is more formal than wiper, as it is primarily used in medical or laboratory settings, which tend to be more formal environments. Wiper is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
