What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
granular
Example
The soil was granular and easy to work with. [granular: adjective]
Example
The chef added a granular seasoning to the dish for extra texture. [granular: adjective]
Example
The machine grinds the coffee beans into a granular powder. [granular: adjective]
crystalline
Example
The snow had a crystalline quality that sparkled in the sunlight. [crystalline: adjective]
Example
The chemist studied the crystalline structure of the mineral. [crystalline: adjective]
Example
The water slowly evaporated, leaving behind a layer of crystalline salt. [crystalline: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Granular is less common than crystalline in everyday language, as it is often used in scientific or technical contexts. Crystalline is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, including science, art, and literature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between granular and crystalline?
Granular is typically associated with a more formal tone due to its technical use, while crystalline can be used in both formal and informal contexts.