What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jarabe
Example
The doctor prescribed a jarabe to soothe my cough. [jarabe: noun]
Example
I added some jarabe de maple to my pancakes for extra sweetness. [jarabe: noun]
Example
We enjoyed some refreshing jarabe de tamarindo at the party. [jarabe: noun]
elixir
Example
The alchemist claimed his elixir could grant immortality. [elixir: noun]
Example
The tonic contained a secret elixir that promised to cure all ailments. [elixir: noun]
Example
The chemist used an elixir to extract the active ingredient from the plant. [elixir: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jarabe is more commonly used than elixir in everyday language, especially in Latin American and Spanish cultures. Elixir is more often used in literary or poetic contexts, and may not be as familiar to ESL learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jarabe and elixir?
While jarabe is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, elixir is more formal and may be used in more literary or academic contexts.
