Meaning trap
do the washing-up
wash the dishes
To wash the dirty dishes, pans and cutlery after a meal.
expressionB1common
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
wash the dishes
To wash the dirty dishes, pans and cutlery after a meal.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- You cooked, so I'll do the washing-up.after dinner
- A: Can you give me a hand in the kitchen?
B: Sure, I'll do the washing-up.sharing chores
Fix the pattern
Pattern: do the washing-up / I'll do the washing-up
WrongI'll do the washing-up of the dishes.
RightI'll do the washing-up.
'The washing-up' already means the dishes — don't add 'of the dishes'.
Patterndo the washing-up / I'll do the washing-up
Don't confuse it
'The washing-up' (noun) is the dirty dishes; 'do the washing' (no -up) means laundry.