What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nectar
Example
The hummingbird sipped the nectar from the flower. [nectar: noun]
Example
The cocktail was made with fresh fruit and nectar, making it sweet and refreshing. [nectar: noun]
sap
Example
The maple tree was dripping sap from its trunk. [sap: noun]
Example
After a long day at work, he felt completely sapped of energy. [sapped: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sap is more commonly used than nectar in everyday language, especially in scientific contexts. Nectar is less common and is mostly used in literary or poetic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nectar and sap?
Sap is more formal than nectar due to its scientific usage, while nectar is more informal and poetic in nature.