What is the difference between "drop" and "dump"? When should I use each? [closed]

I do not know the difference meaning using these two verbs when you 'throw' something in the floor. For example, in the sentence: "I dumped/dropped my wallet on the street."

It may be a very silly question, but I did not find anything about it.

Solution 1:

In this particular context, WordNet defines both the words as follows:

drop(v): the act of dropping something; "they expected the drop would be successful"

dump(v): throw away as refuse; "No dumping in these woods!"

As you can see, dump is a much more negative word as it refers to getting rid of an object (example: to dump the waste). Drop on the other hand, is a neutral word and could be applied to anything (example: they dropped the price to induce more sales).

Solution 2:

Dumped usually refers to something that is discarded intentionally to get rid of something that is not desired. Dropped is more general and can be used for an accidental abandonment such as the wallet in your case.

(As defined on dictionary.com)

Dump - to throw away or discard garbage, refuse, etc. (usually in a negative connotation)

Drop - to let or cause to fall. (much broader meaning)