What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
huile
Example
J'ai besoin d'huile d'olive pour faire la salade. [huile: noun]
Example
Les huiles essentielles sont utilisées pour leurs propriétés thérapeutiques. [huiles: noun]
oil
Example
I need to change the oil in my car. [oil: noun]
Example
The artist used oil paints to create the portrait. [oil: adjective]
Example
Oil prices have been fluctuating due to global demand. [oil: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oil is more commonly used than huile in everyday English language. Oil is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while huile is less common and only used in the French language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between huile and oil?
Both huile and oil can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation. However, huile may be more formal when used in the context of cooking or essential oils in French culture.