What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
child
Example
The child played happily in the park. [child: noun]
Example
She is a loving mother to her three children. [children: plural noun]
offspring
Example
The bird protected its offspring in the nest. [offspring: noun]
Example
The scientist studied the genetic traits of the plant's offspring. [offspring: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Child is more commonly used than offspring in everyday language. It is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts related to young human beings. On the other hand, offspring is less common and is often used in more formal or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between child and offspring?
While child is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, offspring is more formal and is often used in scientific or technical discussions.
