What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
carnivorous
Example
The lion is a carnivorous animal, as it hunts and feeds on other animals. [carnivorous: adjective]
Example
The Venus flytrap is a carnivorous plant that catches and digests insects for nutrients. [carnivorous: adjective]
zoophagous
Example
The great white shark is a zoophagous predator, feeding on various marine animals. [zoophagous: adjective]
Example
The Tasmanian devil is a zoophagous marsupial, known for its carnivorous diet. [zoophagous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carnivorous is more commonly used in everyday language, while zoophagous is a more technical term that is less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between carnivorous and zoophagous?
Both carnivorous and zoophagous can be used in formal and scientific contexts. However, zoophagous may have a slightly more scientific or technical connotation due to its Greek origin.