What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lentil
Example
I made a lentil soup for dinner last night. [lentil: noun]
Example
Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein. [lentils: plural noun]
lens
Example
I need to clean my camera lens before taking any pictures. [lens: noun]
Example
The optometrist checked my lens prescription during my eye exam. [lens: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lens is more commonly used than lentil in everyday language, especially in scientific or technical contexts. Lentil is less common and is mainly used in cooking and nutrition-related discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lentil and lens?
Lens is generally considered more formal than lentil, as it is often used in scientific or technical contexts. Lentil is more casual and informal, as it is mainly used in cooking and everyday conversations.