What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
carbonated
Example
I prefer carbonated water over still water because I like the bubbles. [carbonated: adjective]
Example
The soda was so carbonated that it sprayed out when I opened the bottle. [carbonated: past tense verb]
sparkling
Example
She ordered a glass of sparkling wine to celebrate her promotion. [sparkling: adjective]
Example
The sparkling water tasted refreshing on a hot summer day. [sparkling: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carbonated is more commonly used in everyday language, especially when referring to carbonated soft drinks. On the other hand, sparkling is more commonly used in the context of higher-end or specialty beverages like sparkling water or sparkling wine.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between carbonated and sparkling?
Both carbonated and sparkling can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, sparkling may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with higher-end or specialty beverages.