What is the difference between an appetizer and a starter?

While "appetizer" and "starter" are often used interchangeably, there are some subtle differences in their meaning and usage:

Appetizer:

* Focuses on stimulating the appetite. The term "appetizer" literally translates to "something that opens the appetite". It implies a small, light dish designed to whet the palate before the main course.

* More common in American English. "Appetizer" is the more popular term in the US and is often used on menus.

* Can be served hot or cold.

Starter:

* Emphasis on beginning the meal. A "starter" signifies the first course of a meal, marking the start of a more substantial dining experience.

* More common in British English. "Starter" is more prevalent in British English and is often used on menus in the UK.

* Typically served hot, but not always.

In practice:

* Often, "appetizer" and "starter" are used to describe the same dishes.

* Both terms are used to refer to small portions of food served before the main course.

* The choice between the two terms often depends on personal preference and regional usage.

Examples:

* Appetizer: Bruschetta, calamari, spring rolls

* Starter: Soup, salad, mushroom croquettes

In summary:

The key difference lies in their focus: appetizers are designed to stimulate the appetite, while starters mark the beginning of a meal. Both terms are used to describe small dishes served before the main course, and the choice between them often depends on personal preference and regional usage.