What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
colander
Example
Please use the colander to drain the pasta before serving. [colander: noun]
Example
She placed the vegetables in the colander to remove excess water. [colander: noun]
drainer
Example
I'll put the wet dishes on the drainer to let them dry. [drainer: noun]
Example
The drainer is full of clean plates waiting to be put away. [drainer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colander is more commonly used than drainer in everyday language, as it is a versatile tool used in various cooking situations. Drainer is more specific to the task of drying dishes and may be less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between colander and drainer?
Both colander and drainer are considered informal words and can be used in casual conversations or everyday situations. However, colander may be more commonly used in formal recipes or cooking instructions.