What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
charred
Example
The steak was charred on the grill, giving it a smoky flavor. [charred: adjective]
Example
She accidentally charred the bread in the toaster. [charred: past tense verb]
scorched
Example
The sun scorched the grass, leaving it brown and dry. [scorched: past tense verb]
Example
The pot handle was scorched from being too close to the stove flame. [scorched: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scorched is more commonly used than charred in everyday language. Scorched is versatile and can be used to describe a wider range of objects or surfaces, while charred is more specific to food that has been burned or blackened.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between charred and scorched?
Both charred and scorched can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, charred may be more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations or cooking discussions, while scorched can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
