What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ferments
Example
The dough ferments for several hours before baking. [ferments: verb]
Example
Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics. [fermented: adjective]
leaven
Example
The recipe calls for two teaspoons of leaven. [leaven: noun]
Example
We need to let the dough leaven for an hour before baking. [leaven: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leaven is more commonly used than ferment in everyday language, particularly in the context of baking. Ferment is less common and is typically used in the context of making alcohol, cheese, and pickles.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ferments and leaven?
Both ferment and leaven are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation or writing. However, leaven may be slightly more formal due to its association with baking and culinary arts.
