B1noun2K

Ingredient

UK /["/ɪnˈɡriːdiənt/"]/US /["/ɪnˈɡriːdiənt/"]/

Definition

one of the things from which something is made, especially one of the foods that are used together to make a particular dish

In simple words: A part of a recipe that you need to make food.

Examples

The main ingredient in a chocolate cake is cocoa powder.
Make sure you only use fresh ingredients for the salad.
Water is a crucial ingredient in many cooking recipes.
The secret ingredient in her famous sauce is a dash of cinnamon.
You can find all the ingredients you need at the grocery store.

Usage notes

Commonly used in cooking contexts. Avoid using it in very formal situations; terms like 'component' may be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

ingredient + (of something)

Memory hint

Think of 'in-grit' - you need grit to combine all the parts of a dish.

Collocations

excellent
good
high-quality
use
contain
include
list
label
a list of ingredients
critical
crucial
essential
have
become
provide
ingredient for
ingredient in
an ingredient for success

Synonyms

component
element
part
factor

Antonyms

conclusion
result

Common mistakes

Confused with 'ingredient' vs 'elements' in cooking vs chemistry.
Using it in non-food contexts, which sounds awkward.
Pluralizing incorrectly, such as 'ingredients' when referring to a single item.