What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pare
Example
She used a peeler to pare the apple before slicing it. [pare: verb]
Example
The editor suggested we pare down the article to make it more concise. [pare: phrasal verb]
slice
Example
He sliced the bread with a serrated knife. [slice: verb]
Example
Can you give me a slice of that pizza? [slice: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slice is more commonly used than pare in everyday language. Slice is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pare is less common and refers to a specific type of cutting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pare and slice?
Both pare and slice are relatively formal words, often used in cooking or technical contexts. However, slice may be slightly more informal due to its wider range of uses in everyday language.