What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
seared
Example
The chef seared the steak to perfection. [seared: past tense]
Example
I like my tuna seared on the outside but rare on the inside. [seared: adjective]
char
Example
The vegetables were charred on the grill, giving them a smoky flavor. [charred: past tense]
Example
The chicken was so charred that it was inedible. [charred: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seared is more commonly used than charred in everyday language. Seared is a versatile cooking technique used in various cuisines and dishes, while charred is less common and is associated with overcooking or burning the food.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between seared and char?
Both seared and charred are informal words used in casual conversations and cooking contexts. However, seared can be used in more formal settings due to its positive connotation and association with high-quality cooking.