Washing-up (noun)
Definition: Washing-up refers to the act of cleaning dishes, utensils, and other kitchen items after a meal. This usually includes plates, glasses, pots, and cutlery.
Usage Instructions: - "Washing-up" is commonly used in British English. In American English, people often say "doing the dishes." - You can use it in sentences when talking about chores or tasks that need to be done after eating.
Examples: 1. "After dinner, I will do the washing-up." 2. "Can you help me with the washing-up? There are so many dishes!"
Advanced Usage: - You might hear phrases like "the washing-up bowl," which is a container used for soaking or cleaning dishes. - In some contexts, "washing-up" can also mean the general cleanup of a kitchen area after cooking and eating.
Word Variants: - Wash up (verb): This means to clean dishes. Example: "I need to wash up after breakfast." - Washed-up (adjective): This means something is no longer useful or has been discarded, but it is different in meaning from washing-up.
Different Meanings: - As mentioned, "washed-up" can mean something that is no longer effective or relevant in a different context.
Synonyms: - Doing the dishes (American English) - Cleaning up (more general) - Dishwashing (the act of washing dishes)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - Wash your hands of something: This means to refuse to take responsibility for something. It is not directly related to washing-up but involves the concept of washing. - Wash up: This can mean both to clean dishes and also to come ashore (in a nautical context).