While the words "mix" and "blend" are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between them. "Mix" generally refers to combining things together without necessarily changing their individual properties. Think of it as a simple combination. "Blend," on the other hand, implies a more thorough and even combination, often resulting in a unified whole where the individual components are less distinguishable. Imagine the difference between tossing salad ingredients together (mixing) versus pureeing them into a smooth sauce (blending).

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Mix: I mixed the flour and sugar together. (I combined the flour and sugar.)
• Mix: He mixed the red and blue paints to make purple. (He combined the red and blue paints to create purple.)
• Blend: The artist blended the colours seamlessly. (The artist combined the colours smoothly and evenly.)
• Blend: She blended the fruits into a delicious smoothie. (She combined and pureed the fruits to make a smooth drink.)

Notice that in the "mix" examples, the individual ingredients are still recognizable. In the "blend" examples, the ingredients are combined into a uniform mixture. This difference also extends to more abstract situations. You can mix ideas, for example, but blending them implies a more integrated and cohesive outcome.

Happy learning!