What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
banana
Example
I love eating a ripe banana for breakfast. [banana: noun]
Example
She blended a banana into her smoothie for added sweetness. [banana: noun]
plantain
Example
We fried some plantains as a side dish for dinner. [plantains: noun]
Example
Plantains are often used in Caribbean and African cuisine. [plantains: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Banana is more commonly used and recognized worldwide compared to plantain. Bananas are widely available in supermarkets and are a popular fruit choice for many people. Plantains, on the other hand, may be less common in some regions and are more commonly found in tropical areas or specialty stores.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between banana and plantain?
Both banana and plantain can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, banana is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, including casual conversations, formal writing, and professional settings.
