What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gruel
Example
The orphanage served gruel for breakfast every morning. [gruel: noun]
Example
She boiled the oats until they turned into a thick gruel. [gruel: adjective]
pap
Example
The baby ate pap for the first time and seemed to enjoy it. [pap: noun]
Example
The restaurant served a tasteless pap that left a lot to be desired. [pap: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pap is more commonly used than gruel in everyday language, especially in African countries where it is a staple food. Gruel is less common and may have a negative connotation due to its association with poverty or hardship.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gruel and pap?
Neither gruel nor pap are particularly formal words, but pap may be more informal due to its association with infant food.
