What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consume
Example
I consume a lot of water during my workout. [consume: verb]
Example
The factory consumes a lot of energy to operate its machines. [consume: verb]
Example
It takes time to consume all the information in this book. [consume: verb]
absorb
Example
The sponge absorbs water quickly. [absorbs: verb]
Example
She was able to absorb the lesson easily. [absorb: verb]
Example
This material absorbs sound well, making it ideal for recording studios. [absorbs: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consume is more commonly used than absorb in everyday language, especially in the context of food and drink. However, absorb is more common in academic or technical contexts, such as science or engineering.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between consume and absorb?
Absorb is generally considered more formal than consume, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
