What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cartilage
Example
The doctor explained that the injury was due to damage to the cartilage in my knee. [cartilage: noun]
Example
The cartilage in our ears helps to maintain their shape. [cartilage: noun]
gristle
Example
I don't like eating chicken wings because they often have gristle that is hard to chew. [gristle: noun]
Example
The butcher trimmed off the gristle from the steak before selling it. [gristle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cartilage is a more common term used in everyday language, especially in medical and biological contexts. Gristle is less commonly used and is mainly used in culinary discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cartilage and gristle?
Cartilage is a formal term used in scientific and medical contexts, while gristle is more informal and specific to culinary discussions.
