What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
caterpillar
Example
Look at that colorful caterpillar crawling on the leaf! [caterpillar: noun]
Example
The caterpillar is eating voraciously to prepare for its transformation. [caterpillar: noun]
larva
Example
The larva of the beetle feeds on decaying wood. [larva: noun]
Example
The larva will eventually pupate and emerge as an adult butterfly. [larva: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Caterpillar is more commonly used than larva in everyday language, especially when referring to the larval stage of butterflies and moths. Larva is a more technical term and may be less familiar to beginner ESL learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between caterpillar and larva?
Both caterpillar and larva are generally considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
