What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cilium
Example
The cilia in our respiratory system help to move mucus out of our lungs. [cilium: noun]
Example
Ciliated cells have hair-like structures called cilia on their surface. [ciliated: adjective]
flagellum
Example
Bacteria use flagella to move around in their environment. [flagella: plural noun]
Example
The sperm's flagellum allows it to swim towards the egg. [flagellum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cilium is less commonly used in everyday language compared to flagellum. Flagellum is more widely known and used, especially in the context of biology and cell biology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cilium and flagellum?
Both cilium and flagellum are technical terms used in scientific contexts, making them more formal in nature.
