What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bake
Example
I'm going to bake a cake for my friend's birthday. [bake: verb]
Example
The cookies are baking in the oven and will be ready soon. [baking: present participle]
roast
Example
We're going to roast a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner. [roast: verb]
Example
The aroma of the roasting coffee beans filled the room. [roasting: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bake is more commonly used than roast in everyday language, especially when referring to desserts and baked goods. Roast is more specific to cooking meat, poultry, and vegetables.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bake and roast?
Both bake and roast can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, roast may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with special occasions and traditional cooking methods.
