What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chick
Example
The mother hen was taking care of her newly hatched chicks. [chicks: plural noun]
Example
Look at that adorable little chick! [chick: noun]
hen
Example
The hen laid six eggs this week. [hen: noun]
Example
My grandmother is a wise old hen. [hen: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hen is more commonly used than chick in everyday language, especially when referring to female chickens or women. Chick is less common and is often used in specific contexts such as discussing baby birds or using it as a term of endearment.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between chick and hen?
Both chick and hen are relatively informal words. However, hen can be used in a wider range of contexts, including both informal and formal situations, while chick is more commonly used in casual and familiar settings.