What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
onion
Example
I need to chop up an onion for this recipe. [onion: noun]
Example
The onion made my eyes water while I was cutting it. [onion: noun]
shallot
Example
The recipe calls for shallots instead of onions. [shallots: noun]
Example
Shallots are a key ingredient in this French dish. [shallots: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Onion is more commonly used than shallot in everyday language and cooking. Onion is a versatile ingredient that can be found in most grocery stores and used in a wide range of dishes. Shallot, on the other hand, is less common and considered a specialty ingredient that may be harder to find and more expensive.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between onion and shallot?
Shallot is considered a more formal and upscale ingredient than onion. While onion can be used in both casual and formal contexts, shallot is typically reserved for more sophisticated or fancy dishes.
