What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
seafood
Example
I love seafood, especially sushi and grilled fish. [seafood: noun]
Example
The restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, and oysters. [seafood: adjective]
shellfish
Example
I'm allergic to shellfish, so I can't eat shrimp or crab. [shellfish: noun]
Example
The seafood restaurant has a great selection of fresh shellfish, including oysters and clams. [shellfish: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seafood is a more commonly used term than shellfish in everyday language, as it encompasses a wider range of creatures and is not associated with allergies. Shellfish is more commonly used in culinary contexts and may be more limited in availability depending on the location.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between seafood and shellfish?
Both seafood and shellfish can be used in formal and informal contexts, but shellfish may be more commonly used in culinary or specialized contexts, while seafood is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
