If you’ve ever visited a craft brewery or read about beer containers, you may have come across the terms “Crowler” and “Growler.” At first glance, these words look and sound very similar, so it’s no surprise that many people get confused.
But here’s the interesting part: both words are actually correct, yet they mean different things.
This confusion usually happens because:
- They rhyme and have similar spelling patterns
- Both are related to beer containers
- Many beginners assume one is just a misspelling of the other
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact difference between Crowler vs Growler, when to use each, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer
“Growler” and “Crowler” are both correct words, but they refer to different types of beer containers.
- A growler is a reusable glass jug used to carry draft beer.
- A crowler is a single-use aluminum can filled and sealed at a brewery.
👉 Use growler for reusable containers.
👉 Use crowler for sealed takeaway cans.
Comparison Table
| Word | Correct or Incorrect | Meaning |
| Growler | ✅ Correct | A reusable glass container for beer |
| Crowler | ✅ Correct | A sealed aluminum can filled at a brewery |
| Growler (misspelled as Crowler) | ❌ Incorrect in context | Wrong if referring to a glass jug |
| Crowler (misspelled as Growler) | ❌ Incorrect in context | Wrong if referring to a can |
Meaning of Each Word
✅ Growler
A growler is a traditional container used to transport draft beer from a brewery to home.
Key features:
- Usually made of glass (sometimes stainless steel)
- Comes with a screw cap
- Reusable and eco-friendly
- Typically holds 32 oz or 64 oz of beer
👉 Example meaning:
A growler is a refillable jug used for carrying fresh draft beer.
✅ Crowler
A crowler is a relatively newer invention in the craft beer world.
Key features:
- Made of aluminum (like a soda can)
- Filled and sealed on-site at breweries
- Single-use container
- Keeps beer fresh longer than growlers
👉 Example meaning:
A crowler is a large, sealed aluminum can used for takeaway draft beer.
Grammar Rule Behind the Correct Word
Unlike many grammar mistakes (like affect vs effect), this is not about spelling errors-it’s about word meaning and context.
Key Rule:
Use the word that matches the object you’re describing.
- If it’s a glass jug → Growler
- If it’s a sealed aluminum can → Crowler
This is a case of vocabulary distinction, not incorrect grammar.
✏️ Quick Grammar Tip
Always check context, not just spelling.
Even correctly spelled words can be wrong if used in the wrong situation.
Example Sentences
Here are clear examples to help you understand usage:
I bought a growler of fresh IPA from the local brewery.
She prefers using a growler because it’s reusable.
The bartender filled my growler with craft beer.
We brought two growlers to the party.
A growler keeps beer fresh for a short time.
The brewery sealed a crowler for me to take home.
I ordered a crowler since I didn’t have a growler.
Crowlers are perfect for traveling.
He grabbed a crowler of his favorite stout.
A crowler stays fresh longer than an opened growler.
Don’t confuse a growler with a crowler—they’re different!
Common Mistakes People Make
Many beginners make these mistakes:
❌ Mistake 1: Thinking one word is wrong
Both crowler and growler are correct.
❌ Mistake 2: Using them interchangeably
They are not synonyms.
❌ Mistake 3: Assuming Crowler is a typo
It’s actually a real, trademarked term used in breweries.
❌ Mistake 4: Ignoring context
People often focus on spelling instead of meaning.
Easy Trick to Remember the Difference
Here’s a simple memory trick:
👉 G = Glass = Growler
👉 C = Can = Crowler
💡 Just remember:
- Growler → Glass jug
- Crowler → Can
This trick works every time!
When to Use Each Word
Use “Growler” when:
- Talking about reusable beer containers
- Referring to glass or steel jugs
- Mentioning refills from breweries
Use “Crowler” when:
- Talking about sealed takeaway cans
- Referring to single-use containers
- Mentioning portability or travel
People Also Ask
❓ Is it growler or crowler?
Both are correct, but they mean different things. A growler is a jug, while a crowler is a can.
❓ Why is it called a growler?
Historically, the term “growler” comes from the sound early containers made when carrying beer.
❓ What is a crowler used for?
A crowler is used to take freshly poured beer home in a sealed can.
❓ Which is better, growler or crowler?
It depends:
- Growler → reusable
- Crowler → longer freshness
FAQs
1. Is “crowler” a real word?
Yes, it’s a legitimate term used in the craft beer industry.
2. Can I reuse a crowler?
No, crowlers are designed for single use.
3. How long does beer last in a growler?
Usually 1- 3 days after opening.
4. How long does beer last in a crowler?
Unopened crowlers can last several weeks.
5. Which is more eco-friendly?
Growlers are more eco-friendly because they are reusable.
Related Grammar Mistakes
If you enjoyed learning about Crowler vs Growler, you might also find these confusing:
- Leaves or Leafs
- Then vs Than
- laid out vs layed out
- Bougie or Boujee
- Accept vs Except
These are commonly confused words where meaning matters more than spelling.
Final Summary
Let’s quickly wrap it up:
- ✅ Growler = reusable glass beer jug
- ✅ Crowler = sealed aluminum beer can
- ❌ They are NOT interchangeable
- ✔ Both words are correct, but context is key
👉 Remember the golden rule:
Glass = Growler | Can = Crowler
By understanding this simple difference, you’ll never confuse these terms again-and you’ll sound much more confident when talking about craft beverages or writing about them.