A tablespoon and a teaspoon may look similar, but they measure very different amounts. A tablespoon holds about 15 milliliters, while a teaspoon holds only 5 milliliters making the tablespoon three times larger.
Knowing the difference is essential in cooking and baking, where precise measurements affect taste and texture. Using the wrong spoon can change a recipe’s outcome, so it’s important to measure carefully.
What Is a Tablespoon?
A tablespoon is a common kitchen measuring spoon used for cooking and baking. In standard measurements, one tablespoon equals exactly 15 milliliters or about half a fluid ounce, making it essential for accurate measurement when following recipes.
Tablespoon Abbreviation
The standard abbreviation for a tablespoon is “Tbsp” or “T” in recipes and cooking measurement guides. You might also see it written as “tbsp” with a lowercase “t,” but all these versions mean the same thing.
Knowing this abbreviation helps you follow recipes accurately and understand measurement conversions when you’re cooking or baking.
What Is a Teaspoon?
A teaspoon is a small measuring spoon that holds about 5 milliliters of liquid or dry ingredients. Understanding the difference between a tablespoon and a teaspoon starts with knowing that a teaspoon is the smaller of the two, perfect for adding sugar to your coffee or measuring vanilla extract.
Teaspoon Abbreviation
The standard abbreviation for a teaspoon is “tsp” or sometimes “t” in recipes and cooking guides. Knowing the difference between a tablespoon and a teaspoon starts with understanding these common measuring units used in kitchens worldwide.
Teaspoon vs Tablespoon Size
| Measurement | Teaspoon (tsp) | Tablespoon (tbsp) |
| Volume (US) | 5 ml | 15 ml |
| Volume (Imperial) | 4.93 ml | 14.79 ml |
| Fluid Ounces | 0.17 fl oz | 0.5 fl oz |
| Conversion | 1 tsp | 3 tsp = 1 tbsp |
| Tablespoon to Teaspoon Ratio | 1/3 of a tablespoon | 3 times a teaspoon |
| Common Use | Small amounts (spices, extracts) | Larger amounts (oil, butter, sugar) |
Tablespoon-to-Teaspoon Conversion
| Tablespoons | Teaspoons | Fluid Ounces |
| 1 tbsp | 3 tsp | 0.5 fl oz |
| 2 tbsp | 6 tsp | 1 fl oz |
| 3 tbsp | 9 tsp | 1.5 fl oz |
| 4 tbsp | 12 tsp | 2 fl oz |
| 5 tbsp | 15 tsp | 2.5 fl oz |
| ½ tbsp | 1.5 tsp | 0.25 fl oz |
| ¼ tbsp | 0.75 tsp | 0.125 fl oz |
Measuring Spoons vs. Regular Spoons
A tablespoon and a teaspoon used for cooking have standard measurements, unlike regular spoons from your cutlery drawer. Measuring spoons follow precise volume measurement chart standards a tablespoon holds exactly 15ml while a teaspoon holds 5ml making them essential for accurate measurement in recipes.
How to Tell a Teaspoon from a Tablespoon
The easiest way to tell a tablespoon and a teaspoon apart is by size a tablespoon holds three times more liquid than a teaspoon, measuring 15 milliliters compared to just 5 milliliters.
How to Measure Without Measuring Spoons
If you don’t have a tablespoon and a teaspoon handy, you can use everyday item sizes as reference points. A tablespoon is roughly the size of an ice cube, while a teaspoon equals about half that amount perfect for quick cooking measurement guide solutions.
Tips to Help You Choose the Right Measuring Spoon
Check the recipe carefully : Most baking measurement tips specify whether you need a tablespoon and a teaspoon, so read instructions twice before measuring
Look at the label markings : Quality measuring spoon sizes have clear “tbsp” or “tsp” engravings that prevent confusion during cooking
Consider the ingredient type : Use accurate measurement tools for liquid vs dry measurements, as a tablespoon and a teaspoon work differently with various ingredients
Keep a conversion chart nearby : A kitchen measurement conversions reference helps you quickly switch between measuring units when recipes vary
Invest in a complete set : Having both a tablespoon and a teaspoon in stainless steel ensures consistent measurement equivalents every time you cook.
Final Words
In summary, the key difference between a tablespoon and a teaspoon lies in their capacity a tablespoon holds three times more than a teaspoon.
Understanding this distinction ensures accuracy in cooking and baking, helping you achieve consistent and delicious results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 2 tsp make 1 tbsp?
No, 2 teaspoons equal only 2/3 of a tablespoon; a full tablespoon is 3 teaspoons.
Which is bigger, tsp or tbsp?
A tablespoon (tbsp) is bigger than a teaspoon (tsp), holding three times more.
Is 5ml a teaspoon or tablespoon?
5 mL is equivalent to one teaspoon.
What is tablespoon size?
A tablespoon holds 15 mL, which is equal to 3 teaspoons or 1/2 fluid ounce.
How do you measure a tbsp?
Use a standard measuring spoon marked “1 tbsp” for accurate measurement.
What is 2 tbsp equivalent to?
2 tablespoons equal 6 teaspoons or 30 mL.
How to measure a tsp without a measuring spoon?
You can estimate with a regular spoon; roughly one-third of a tablespoon equals a teaspoon.
Is 1 tablespoon 10 mL?
No, 1 tablespoon is 15 mL, not 10 mL.
How do I convert measurements easily?
Remember simple ratios: 1 tbsp = 3 tsp, or use a conversion chart for quick reference.
Daniel is a skilled content creator with 4 years of experience writing blogs on measurement, weights, and dimensions. Now, he brings his expertise to MeasureCore.com, delivering accurate, insightful, and user-friendly resources for global readers.