Flour vs Powder

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 FlourPowder
MeaningA white powder made from grinding grains, used for baking and cooking.A dry, fine substance made by grinding or crushing something.
CEFR levelB1B1
Part of speechnounnoun
Usage notesCommonly used in cooking and baking; typically appropriate in kitchens and grocery stores. Avoid using in formal writing unless discussing food science.Used in contexts involving cooking, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. Avoid using it to refer to liquids or solids that are not finely divided.

Frequently asked questions: Flour vs Powder

What's the difference between "Flour" and "Powder"?

"Flour" means: A white powder made from grinding grains, used for baking and cooking. "Powder" means: A dry, fine substance made by grinding or crushing something.

When should I use "Flour" and "Powder"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Flour" and "Powder" the same CEFR level?

"Flour" is at B1, "Powder" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.

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