What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scarf
Example
He scarfed down his burger in just a few bites. [scarfed: verb]
Example
She wore a colorful scarf around her neck to keep warm. [scarf: noun]
devour
Example
The kids devoured the pizza as soon as it arrived. [devoured: past tense]
Example
She devours books like they're going out of style. [devours: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scarf is more commonly used in American English, while devour is more commonly used in British English. Both words are informal and are used in casual conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scarf and devour?
Devour is more formal than scarf and may be used in academic or professional contexts. However, both words are generally informal and are not appropriate for formal writing or speech.