What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
childbearing
Example
She decided to focus on her career before entering into childbearing. [childbearing: noun]
Example
The book discusses the challenges and joys of childbearing. [childbearing: gerund or present participle]
birth
Example
The doctor assisted with the birth of the baby. [birth: noun]
Example
She gave birth to a healthy baby boy. [birth: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Birth is more commonly used than childbearing in everyday language. Birth is a familiar term that people use to talk about the arrival of a baby, while childbearing is a more specialized term that is commonly used in medical or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between childbearing and birth?
While childbearing is typically associated with a more formal or medical tone, birth is a versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.