What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
culm
Example
The culm of the bamboo plant is strong and flexible. [culm: noun]
Example
The culms of the sedge plants were used to weave baskets. [culms: plural noun]
stems
Example
The stem of the tomato plant was thick and sturdy. [stem: noun]
Example
She carefully removed the stems from the strawberries before eating them. [stems: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stem is more commonly used than culm in everyday language. Stem is a general term that covers a wide range of plants and contexts, while culm is more specific and less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between culm and stems?
While culm is typically associated with technical or scientific language, stem is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
