Carryout vs. Takeout: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss || Updated on May 20, 2024
Carryout and takeout both refer to food ordered from a restaurant to be eaten elsewhere, with "carryout" being more commonly used in the Midwest, and "takeout" more widely used across the United States.
Key Differences
Carryout refers to food purchased from a restaurant or establishment that is intended to be consumed elsewhere. This term is often used in the Midwest and certain other regions of the United States. Takeout also describes food ordered from a restaurant to be eaten off-premises. This term is more commonly used across the United States and in international English.
Both terms describe the same service, but regional preferences determine which term is more commonly used. Carryout is often seen on restaurant signs and menus in the Midwest, while takeout is more universal and recognized nationwide and internationally.
In everyday usage, the choice between carryout and takeout typically depends on regional dialect and personal preference. Both terms are understood to mean food that is ordered to go, with no significant difference in meaning or usage apart from regional variations.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Food purchased to be eaten elsewhere
Food ordered to be eaten off-premises
Common Usage Region
Midwest United States
Nationwide and internationally
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Example Phrase
"Let's get carryout for dinner."
"Let's order takeout tonight."
Menu/Sign Presence
Often seen in the Midwest
Commonly seen across the U.S.
International Usage
Less common
More widely recognized
Carryout and Takeout Definitions
Carryout
Often used in the Midwest region of the United States.
The local diner offers a carryout service.
Takeout
The act of purchasing food to go.
Takeout is a great option for busy weeknights.
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Carryout
An alternative term for takeout.
Carryout orders are available until 10 PM.
Takeout
Refers to the service provided by restaurants for off-premises consumption.
The takeout menu has a variety of options.
Carryout
Food purchased from a restaurant to be eaten elsewhere.
We decided to get carryout from our favorite pizza place.
Takeout
Food ordered from a restaurant to be eaten off-premises.
We ordered Chinese takeout for lunch.
Carryout
Refers to the practice of taking food away from the place of purchase.
He picked up some carryout on his way home.
Takeout
The food itself that is ordered to go.
They enjoyed their takeout on a picnic.
Carryout
Used to describe the option to take food home from a restaurant.
Many restaurants have increased their carryout options.
Takeout
Commonly used across the United States and internationally.
She prefers takeout because it's quick and convenient.
Carryout
Food that is intended to be eaten outside the establishment from which it is bought.
Takeout
Intended to be eaten off the premises
Takeout pizza.
Carryout
An establishment that prepares and sells food to be taken away on demand; a takeaway.
Takeout
Selling or intended for the sale of food products to be consumed off the premises
A takeout counter.
Takeout containers.
Takeout
(North America) (Of food) intended to be eaten off the premises from which it was bought.
Takeout
Food purchased from a takeaway.
Takeout
(curling) A stone that hits another stone, removing it from play.
Takeout
(bridge) A double of an opponent's bid, intended to invite one's partner to compete in the auction, rather than to penalise one's opponents.
Takeout
(television) A detailed news segment.
Takeout
Prepared food that is intended to be eaten off of the premises;
In England they call takeout food `takeaway'
Takeout
(bridge) a bid that asks your partner to bid another suit
Takeout
Of or involving food to be taken and eaten off the premises;
Takeout pizza
The takeout counter
`take-away' is chiefly British
FAQs
What is takeout?
Takeout describes food ordered from a restaurant to be eaten off-premises.
Is there a difference between carryout and takeout?
No, both terms refer to the same concept of food ordered to go, but "carryout" is more commonly used in the Midwest.
Where is carryout most commonly used?
Carryout is most commonly used in the Midwest region of the United States.
Why might someone prefer takeout over dining in?
Takeout is convenient for those who want to eat at home or elsewhere and avoid the time and expense of dining in.
What is carryout?
Carryout refers to food purchased from a restaurant to be eaten elsewhere.
Which term is more commonly used in the United States?
Takeout is more commonly used across the United States.
Can carryout and takeout be used interchangeably?
Yes, they can be used interchangeably, though regional preferences might dictate one term over the other.
Do restaurants offer both carryout and takeout services?
Yes, restaurants often offer both services, though they may use one term or the other.
Can I use carryout when traveling outside the Midwest?
While you can use carryout, takeout might be more universally understood outside the Midwest.
Do all restaurants offer carryout or takeout?
Most restaurants offer one or both services, but it's always best to check with the specific establishment.
How did takeout become a common term?
Takeout became common due to its widespread use and recognition in English-speaking countries.
Is carryout considered an informal term?
No, carryout is not informal, but it is regionally specific.
Does carryout imply faster service than dine-in?
Not necessarily, but carryout is often perceived as a quicker option because it doesn't involve table service.
Is takeout used internationally?
Yes, takeout is recognized and used internationally.
Are there any regional preferences for using takeout?
Takeout is generally preferred nationwide, but carryout is used more frequently in the Midwest.
Is there a difference in menu options for carryout and takeout?
No, the menu options for carryout and takeout are typically the same.
Can takeout include delivery?
Takeout generally refers to picking up food, but it can sometimes include delivery in casual usage.
Do menus specify items available for carryout or takeout?
Some menus specify items available for carryout or takeout, especially if certain dishes do not travel well.
Are there specific types of food more associated with takeout?
Pizza, Chinese food, and fast food are commonly associated with takeout.
Can beverages be ordered for carryout or takeout?
Yes, beverages can typically be ordered for both carryout and takeout.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
