What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
culinary
Example
She enrolled in a culinary school to learn how to cook professionally. [culinary: adjective]
Example
The chef demonstrated his culinary skills by preparing a five-course meal. [culinary: adjective]
cuisine
Example
Italian cuisine is known for its pasta dishes and tomato-based sauces. [cuisine: noun]
Example
We enjoyed the local cuisine during our trip to Thailand. [cuisine: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cuisine is more commonly used than culinary in everyday language, especially when referring to specific types of food or cooking styles. Culinary is more commonly used in professional or technical contexts, such as culinary schools or the culinary industry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between culinary and cuisine?
Culinary is generally considered more formal than cuisine, which has a more cultural and artistic connotation. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and audience.
