What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gullet
Example
The food travels down the gullet and into the stomach. [gullet: noun]
Example
He felt a lump in his gullet when he swallowed the pill. [gullet: informal]
esophagus
Example
The esophagus is responsible for moving food from the mouth to the stomach. [esophagus: noun]
Example
He had trouble swallowing due to a blockage in his esophagus. [esophagus: medical]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Esophagus is a more common term than gullet in formal or medical contexts. However, gullet may be used informally or in casual conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gullet and esophagus?
Esophagus is a more formal term than gullet, and it is commonly used in medical or scientific contexts. On the other hand, gullet is an informal term that may be used in casual conversation or non-formal writing.