What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clam
Example
I love eating steamed clams with butter and lemon. [clam: noun]
Example
Let's go clamming at the beach this weekend. [clamming: gerund or present participle]
mollusk
Example
The seashore is home to various mollusks, such as clams, mussels, and oysters. [mollusks: plural noun]
Example
The mollusk's shell provides protection from predators. [mollusk's: possessive noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clam is more commonly used than mollusk in everyday language, especially in the context of seafood and recreational activities like clamming. Mollusk is a more scientific term that is commonly used in biology and marine studies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clam and mollusk?
While clam is commonly used in informal and casual contexts, mollusk is more commonly used in formal or scientific settings due to its broader scope and technical nature.
