What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jam
Example
I love to have jam on my toast in the morning. [jam: noun]
Example
The traffic was jammed for hours due to the accident. [jammed: past participle]
Example
The printer is jammed with paper and won't print. [jammed: verb]
preserve
Example
My grandmother makes delicious strawberry preserves every summer. [preserves: noun]
Example
We need to preserve the environment for future generations. [preserve: verb]
Example
I like to preserve fruits and vegetables by canning them. [preserve: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jam is more commonly used than preserve in everyday language, especially when referring to the sweet spread. However, preserve is still a common term, particularly when talking about preserving food.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jam and preserve?
Both jam and preserve are versatile and can be used in various formality levels, making them suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
