Leftovers and Left Over: A Tale of Two Remains

Leftovers and Left Over: A Tale of Two Remains

Difference Between Leftover and Left Over

Leftover and left over sound the same, but they are used in different ways. Let’s learn about them!

History

Leftover began as two words. Over time, they became one word. It means something that remains after all is used or eaten.

Left over are two words. “Left” means to remain. “Over” means more than needed or past a point.

How to Use Them

Leftover

“Leftover” is an adjective or a noun. It talks about something that remains.

• We have leftover food from dinner.
• Let’s eat the leftovers for lunch.
• There is some leftover cake in the fridge.
• She uses leftover fabric to make a quilt.
• After the party, we packed the leftovers.

Left Over

“Left over” is a phrase. It shows something is remaining after a needed amount is used.

• We had some money left over after shopping.
• How many pieces are left over?
• There’s always some food left over after dinner.
• Are there any tickets left over?
• There was time left over at the end of the game.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “leftover” as one thing, like a leftover meal. “Left over” is two words, showing what remains, like extra pieces.

Summary

“Leftover” means something that remains and is used as an adjective or noun. “Left over” means something that is remaining and is used as a phrase.

Now you know the difference! Use these words to talk about things that remain.