What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
animal
Example
The zoo has a wide variety of animals from all over the world. [animal: noun]
Example
The dog is a loyal and affectionate animal. [animal: adjective]
critter
Example
Look at that little critter scurrying across the lawn! [critter: noun]
Example
The cat is a curious and playful critter. [critter: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Animal is a much more common term than critter in everyday language. Animal is used in a wide range of contexts, from scientific and academic to everyday conversation, while critter is more limited in its usage and often reserved for informal or regional situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between animal and critter?
Animal is a more formal term than critter, which is more casual and colloquial. While animal can be used in both formal and informal contexts, critter is generally considered too informal for formal situations.
