What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
simmer
Example
The soup needs to simmer for an hour before it's ready. [simmer: verb]
Example
The tension between the two countries has been simmering for months. [simmering: present participle]
seethe
Example
The water began to seethe as it reached boiling point. [seethe: verb]
Example
He was seething with anger after the argument. [seething: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Simmer is more commonly used than seethe in everyday language. Simmer is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as cooking and emotions. Seethe is less common and is typically used to describe intense emotional states.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between simmer and seethe?
Both simmer and seethe are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
