What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
liquor
Example
I prefer to drink liquor straight up rather than mixed in a cocktail. [liquor: noun]
Example
She added a splash of liquor to the cake batter for extra flavor. [liquor: noun]
spirits
Example
He enjoys sipping on spirits after dinner to help him relax. [spirits: noun]
Example
The bartender recommended a spirit-based cocktail for me to try. [spirit-based: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Liquor is a more commonly used term than spirits in everyday language, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of distilled alcoholic beverages. However, spirits is more commonly used in the context of formal or sophisticated drinking experiences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between liquor and spirits?
Spirits is often associated with a more formal or sophisticated tone, while liquor is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.