What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
embellish
Example
She likes to embellish her outfits with jewelry and accessories. [embellish: verb]
Example
The author used vivid descriptions to embellish the story and make it more engaging. [embellish: verb]
Example
He tends to embellish his accomplishments to impress others. [embellish: verb]
garnish
Example
The chef garnished the plate with fresh herbs and sliced tomatoes. [garnish: verb]
Example
She added a sprig of mint to garnish the cocktail and give it a refreshing flavor. [garnish: verb]
Example
The artist used gold leaf to garnish the painting and add a touch of luxury. [garnish: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Garnish is more commonly used than embellish in everyday language. Garnish is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as cooking, art, and decoration. Embellish is less common and has a more specific usage related to creative or storytelling contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embellish and garnish?
Both embellish and garnish are formal words that are appropriate for use in professional or academic contexts. However, garnish is more commonly used in everyday language and is therefore more versatile in terms of formality level.
