Is yummy formal or informal?

It is informal and often sounds childlike or friendly.

Can I use yummy for drinks?

Yes. You can say a drink is yummy if it tastes very good.

What is the difference between yummy and delicious?

Yummy is more casual and playful. Delicious is more neutral and works better in formal writing.

Can I say a person is yummy?

Yes, but it is informal and can sound flirty or old-fashioned.

← Dictionary

yummy

/ˈjʌm.i/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Yummy means very tasty or delicious. It is usually informal and often used about food, drinks, or treats.

This cake is really yummy.
The soup smells yummy.
We had a yummy lunch.

Adinary Nuance

Yummy is warmer and more playful than "delicious" or "tasty". People often use it in casual speech, especially with food they enjoy a lot. It can sound childlike or cute, so it is less suitable for formal writing.

In other languages

Vietnamese: ngon
Spanish: rico
Chinese: 美味的
Japanese: おいしい
Korean: 맛있는

Etymology

Yummy appeared in English in the late 19th century as a child-like or informal word. It likely came from earlier expressive uses connected to pleasure or good taste.

Common phrases

yummy foodlook yummytaste yummya yummy treat

Synonyms

delicious tasty appetizing palatable

Related words

flavor sweet scrumptious mouthwatering

Frequently asked questions

Is yummy formal or informal?: It is informal and often sounds childlike or friendly.
Can I use yummy for drinks?: Yes. You can say a drink is yummy if it tastes very good.
What is the difference between yummy and delicious?: Yummy is more casual and playful. Delicious is more neutral and works better in formal writing.
Can I say a person is yummy?: Yes, but it is informal and can sound flirty or old-fashioned.