What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
birth
Example
The doctor assisted in the birth of the baby. [birth: noun]
Example
She gave birth to a healthy baby boy. [gave birth: verb]
childbirth
Example
She experienced a long and difficult childbirth. [childbirth: noun]
Example
The couple attended childbirth classes to prepare for the arrival of their baby. [childbirth: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Birth is more commonly used than childbirth in everyday language. Birth is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while childbirth is more specific and often used in medical or formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between birth and childbirth?
While birth is commonly used in informal and everyday language, childbirth is generally considered more formal and is often used in medical or clinical contexts.
