What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
copulation
Example
The documentary showed footage of copulation between two lions. [copulation: noun]
Example
The study aimed to investigate the effects of copulation on hormone levels in rats. [copulation: noun]
mating
Example
The mating season for deer is in the fall. [mating: noun]
Example
The birds were observed mating in the tree outside my window. [mating: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mating is more commonly used than copulation in everyday language, as it has a more casual and colloquial tone. Copulation is typically used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between copulation and mating?
Copulation is generally considered more formal than mating, as it has a clinical or technical connotation. Mating can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
