What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cake
Example
I baked a chocolate cake for my friend's birthday. [cake: noun]
Example
She loves eating cake with a cup of tea in the afternoon. [cake: noun]
gateau
Example
The patisserie displayed a beautiful gateau in their showcase. [gateau: noun]
Example
We ordered a delicious gateau for our anniversary dinner. [gateau: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cake is more commonly used and recognized worldwide, while gateau is less common and often associated with specific culinary traditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cake and gateau?
While cake can be enjoyed in both casual and formal settings, gateau has a more formal and elegant connotation, making it suitable for upscale events or special occasions.