What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
simmering
Example
The soup needs to be simmered for an hour to allow the flavors to blend. [simmered: past participle]
Example
The tension between the two friends had been simmering for weeks before it finally boiled over. [simmering: present participle]
stewing
Example
The beef stew needs to be stewed for several hours until the meat is tender. [stewed: past participle]
Example
She's been stewing over that comment all day, unable to let it go. [stewing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Simmering and stewing are both commonly used in cooking contexts, but simmering is more versatile and can be used in non-cooking contexts as well. Stewing is less common and is mostly used in cooking contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between simmering and stewing?
Both simmering and stewing are relatively formal words and are not typically used in casual conversation. However, simmering is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including non-cooking contexts, making it slightly less formal than stewing.
