What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swallowing
Example
I have trouble swallowing large pills. [swallowing: gerund]
Example
Swallowing is an automatic reflex that helps us eat and drink. [swallowing: noun]
consumption
Example
The doctor recommended limiting my sugar consumption. [consumption: noun]
Example
The average daily water consumption for an adult is about 2 liters. [consumption: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consumption is more commonly used than swallowing in everyday language. Consumption is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while swallowing is more specific and often used in medical or anatomical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between swallowing and consumption?
Both swallowing and consumption are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
