What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fodder
Example
The farmer stocked up on fodder for the winter. [fodder: noun]
Example
The article provided useful fodder for the debate. [fodder: noun]
Example
The politician used the issue as political fodder. [fodder: noun]
forage
Example
The bears went out to forage for berries. [forage: verb]
Example
He had to forage through his closet to find a clean shirt. [forage: verb]
Example
During the war, people had to forage for food and supplies. [forage: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fodder is more commonly used than forage in everyday language, especially in agricultural or industrial contexts. Forage is less common but still widely used in natural or survival contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fodder and forage?
Both fodder and forage can be used in formal or informal contexts, but fodder may be more commonly used in formal contexts due to its association with agriculture and industry.