Wash dishes.

Meaning: This phrase is used to ask someone to clean the dishes after a meal. For example, a parent might say to their child, Can you please wash the dishes?

Choice of Words: Wash is a verb that means to clean something with water and soap. Dishes are plates, bowls, glasses, and silverware that are used for eating and drinking.

Alternative Expressions

Clean the dishes.

Meaning: This means to remove any dirt or food residue from the dirty plates, bowls, cups, and other items that are used for eating or serving food.

Choice of Words: Clean is a verb that means to make something free of dirt, dust, or other unwanted substances. Dishes are plates, bowls, cups, and other items that are used for eating or serving food. When you put them together, "Clean the dishes" is a clear instruction asking someone to remove any dirt or food residue from the dishes.

Do the dishes.

Meaning: This means to complete the task of cleaning the dirty plates, bowls, cups, and other items that are used for eating or serving food.

Choice of Words: Do is a verb that means to perform an action or task. Dishes are plates, bowls, cups, and other items that are used for eating or serving food. When you put them together, "Do the dishes" is a clear instruction asking someone to complete the task of cleaning the dirty dishes.

Related Expressions