What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spoon
Example
Can you pass me a spoon, please? [spoon: noun]
Example
She spooned the soup into the bowl. [spooned: past tense verb]
utensil
Example
The chef used a variety of utensils to prepare the meal. [utensils: plural noun]
Example
Please put away the utensils after washing them. [utensils: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Utensil is a more commonly used term than spoon in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of kitchen tools and is a more general term. Spoon is a specific type of utensil that is used in specific contexts, such as eating soup or ice cream.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spoon and utensil?
Both spoon and utensil are neutral terms that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, utensil may be slightly more formal due to its broader scope and technical connotation.
