Put toothpaste on your toothbrush.

Meaning: This means to place toothpaste on your toothbrush.

Choice of Words: Put means to place something in a particular position. Toothpaste is a paste that is used to clean teeth. On means in or at a position that is higher than something else. Your means belonging to you. Toothbrush is a tool used to clean teeth. When you put them together, "Put toothpaste on your toothbrush" means to place toothpaste in a position that is higher than your toothbrush.

Alternative Expressions

Squeeze some toothpaste onto your toothbrush.

Meaning: This means to take the toothpaste tube and gently press it to force some toothpaste out onto the bristles of your toothbrush, ready to use for brushing your teeth.

Choice of Words: Squeeze means to press something to force its contents out. Toothpaste is a paste-like substance used to clean teeth. Toothbrush is a small brush with bristles used to clean teeth. Onto means to a position on top of or in contact with something. When you put them together, "Squeeze some toothpaste onto your toothbrush" is a more specific instruction on how to prepare your toothbrush for brushing your teeth.

Apply a small amount of toothpaste to your toothbrush.

Meaning: This means to take a small amount of toothpaste and gently spread it onto the bristles of your toothbrush, ready to use for brushing your teeth.

Choice of Words: Apply means to put or spread something onto a surface. Toothpaste is a paste-like substance used to clean teeth. Toothbrush is a small brush with bristles used to clean teeth. Amount refers to a quantity of something. Small means not large in size or quantity. When you put them together, "Apply a small amount of toothpaste to your toothbrush" is a more formal instruction on how to prepare your toothbrush for brushing your teeth.

Related Expressions