What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conch
Example
The conch shell was blown to signal the start of the ceremony. [conch: noun]
Example
I bought a beautiful conch shell as a souvenir from my beach vacation. [conch: noun]
seashell
Example
She picked up a seashell and held it to her ear to listen to the ocean. [seashell: noun]
Example
The necklace was made from small seashells strung together. [seashells: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seashell is more commonly used than conch in everyday language. Seashell is a general term that covers a wide range of shells found on the beach or in the ocean, while conch refers specifically to a type of large sea snail with a spiral shell.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conch and seashell?
Both conch and seashell are generally informal words and can be used in casual conversation or writing.
