What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fillet
Example
I would like a fillet of salmon for dinner tonight. [fillet: noun]
Example
The chef filleted the fish expertly, leaving no bones behind. [filleted: past tense verb]
cutlet
Example
I ordered a chicken cutlet sandwich for lunch. [cutlet: noun]
Example
The chef prepared the veal cutlets by pounding them thin and breading them before frying. [cutlets: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cutlet is more commonly used than fillet in everyday language, especially when referring to meat dishes. Fillet is more commonly used when referring to fish, but is less common overall.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fillet and cutlet?
Both fillet and cutlet can be used in formal and informal contexts, but fillet may be considered more formal due to its association with fine dining and seafood dishes.
