What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chewing
Example
Make sure to chew your food thoroughly before swallowing. [chew: verb]
Example
Chewing gum can help freshen your breath. [chewing: gerund or present participle]
mastication
Example
Proper mastication is important for good digestion. [mastication: noun]
Example
The dentist advised him to improve his mastication technique. [mastication: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chewing is more commonly used than mastication in everyday language. Chewing is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while mastication is more specific and typically used in scientific or medical discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chewing and mastication?
While chewing is associated with a casual and informal tone, mastication is a more formal term used in scientific or medical contexts.
