What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cattle
Example
The farmer has a large herd of cattle on his ranch. [cattle: noun]
Example
Cattle farming is an important industry in this region. [cattle: noun]
oxen
Example
The farmer used a team of oxen to pull the heavy cart. [oxen: noun]
Example
Oxen were commonly used in agriculture before the advent of modern machinery. [oxen: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cattle is a more commonly used term in everyday language, as it encompasses a broader range of bovine animals and agricultural contexts. Oxen is a more specialized term that is less commonly used, mainly in specific agricultural or historical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cattle and oxen?
Both cattle and oxen can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, cattle is more versatile and commonly used in various settings, while oxen is more specific and may be more commonly used in technical or historical discussions.