Scatter: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you want to describe something being thrown or spread in different directions, often carelessly or without order.

• The wind began to scatter the leaves across the yard.
• He scattered the pieces of the puzzle on the table.

Used when describing something being spread out over a large area or becoming less concentrated, often suggesting an organized or natural process.

• The police dispersed the crowd after the concert.
• The fog slowly dispersed as the sun rose.

Used when something is extended over a wide area or over time, often in a controlled or intentional way.

• She spread butter on her toast.
• The rumor quickly spread throughout the school.

Used when objects are scattered around haphazardly or carelessly over an area, often giving a sense of disorder.

• Clothes were strewn all over the room.
• The hurricane left debris strewn across the streets.

Scatter is best used when you want to talk about spreading things widely in random directions. It is commonly used for solid objects and can be both positive and neutral.

• The children scattered the toys all over the room.
• The farmer scattered seeds across the field.

Sprinkle is commonly used when discussing small quantities of solid substances being distributed over an area. It often carries a positive or neutral connotation and is frequently used in cooking or gardening.

• She sprinkled salt over the pasta.
• The baker sprinkled powdered sugar on top of the cookies.

Spray is typically used when talking about liquids being spread in a fine mist. It is frequently used for actions involving water, cleaning products, or aerosols.

• She sprayed perfume onto her neck.
• He sprayed water on the plants to keep them fresh.

Dust is often used to discuss light, powdery substances being lightly applied or removed. It has a neutral connotation and is often used in cleaning contexts.

• She dusted the bookshelf with a cloth.
• He dusted the cake with powdered sugar.