What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tater
Example
I'm making some tater tots for dinner. [tater: noun]
Example
He loves his taters mashed with lots of butter. [taters: plural noun]
spud
Example
I ordered a side of spuds with my burger. [spuds: noun]
Example
He's got eyes like a spud! [spud: noun, used metaphorically]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tater is more commonly used than spud in everyday language, especially in Southern American English or rural dialects. Spud is less common and more likely to be used in specific contexts or slang.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tater and spud?
Tater is slightly more informal than spud, but both words are not commonly used in formal contexts and are more appropriate for casual conversation or writing.
