What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tang
Example
The tang of the lemon juice added a zesty flavor to the salad. [tang: noun]
Example
The sauce had a tangy taste that complemented the spiciness of the chicken. [tangy: adjective]
pungency
Example
The curry had a pungent aroma that filled the kitchen. [pungent: adjective]
Example
The cheese had a pungency that was both strong and delicious. [pungency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tang is more commonly used in everyday language and can refer to a range of flavors, while pungency is less common and typically associated with spicy or strong flavors.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between tang and pungency?
Pungency is more technical and less common, making it more formal than tang, which is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.