What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
starch
Example
I added some cornstarch to the sauce to thicken it. [cornstarch: noun]
Example
The shirt needs to be starched before ironing. [starched: verb]
gum
Example
I stepped on gum and now it's stuck to my shoe. [gum: noun]
Example
She likes to chew gum while studying. [gum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Starch is more commonly used than gum in everyday language, especially in cooking and food preparation. Gum is less common and is mainly used in specific industries.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between starch and gum?
Both starch and gum can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation. However, starch is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, making it more formal than gum.
