Catsup and Ketchup: What’s the Difference?

Difference Between Catsup and Ketchup

Catsup and Ketchup are two words for the same thing: a red sauce made from tomatoes. People put this sauce on many foods, like fries and burgers. But why are there two names? Here is a simple story about these words.

History of the Words

Long ago, the word “ketchup” came from Asia. It was a sauce, but not made from tomatoes. When the sauce came to America, people started using tomatoes to make it. Some people used “catsup” instead of “ketchup” to talk about the same sauce.

How to Use the Words

Today, most people say “ketchup” when they talk about the red tomato sauce. But you might still see “catsup” on some bottles or in some stores. Both words are correct.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “ketchup” as the word you are most likely to see and hear. It is more common. “Catsup” is not used as much now. When in doubt, use “ketchup”.

Example Sentences with “Ketchup”

• She likes to put ketchup on her fries.
• Can you pass the ketchup, please?
• The burger needs some ketchup for extra flavor.
• We are out of ketchup; let’s buy some more.
• I spilled ketchup on my shirt.

Example Sentences with “Catsup”

• Some old recipes call for catsup.
• Look at this bottle of catsup; it has a funny label.
• Grandma says catsup, but we say ketchup.
• In the old days, people used catsup more often.
• Catsup and ketchup are the same thing.

Summary

In simple words, “ketchup” and “catsup” mean the same red sauce. “Ketchup” is more common today. “Catsup” is an old way to say it. When you talk about the sauce, you can use both words, but people will understand “ketchup” better.