What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fermentation
Example
The dough needs to undergo fermentation before it can be baked. [fermentation: noun]
Example
The bacteria in the yogurt are responsible for the fermentation process. [fermentation: noun]
spoilage
Example
The meat has started to show signs of spoilage, so we need to throw it away. [spoilage: noun]
Example
The milk has gone bad due to spoilage caused by bacteria. [spoilage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spoilage is more commonly used than fermentation in everyday language, especially in the context of food safety and preservation. Fermentation is more specialized and often used in the context of food and beverage production.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fermentation and spoilage?
Fermentation is associated with a more formal and technical tone, while spoilage is more casual and colloquial, often used in everyday conversations about food quality and safety.
