What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
algae
Example
The pond was covered in green algae. [algae: noun]
Example
Algae are important for producing oxygen in the ocean. [algae: plural noun]
kelp
Example
The divers swam through the kelp forest, admiring the colorful fish. [kelp: noun]
Example
Kelp is used in many products such as shampoo and toothpaste. [kelp: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Algae is more commonly used than kelp in everyday language. Algae is a more general term that covers a wide range of aquatic organisms, while kelp refers to a specific type of large brown seaweed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between algae and kelp?
Both algae and kelp are scientific terms that are commonly used in formal contexts such as biology and ecology. However, kelp may be more commonly used in commercial and industrial contexts due to its various uses.
