What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cockatoo
Example
The cockatoo's colorful crest stood tall on its head. [cockatoo: noun]
Example
We could hear the cockatoo's screeches from across the park. [cockatoo's: possessive form]
parrot
Example
The parrot showed off its colorful plumage. [parrot: noun]
Example
The parrot mimicked the sound of a telephone ringing. [mimicked: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Parrot is more commonly used than cockatoo in everyday language. Parrot is a more general term that encompasses a wider range of bird species, while cockatoo refers specifically to a type of bird with a crest on its head.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cockatoo and parrot?
Both cockatoo and parrot can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, cockatoo may be considered slightly more formal due to its specific and less commonly used nature.
