What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cottontail
Example
The cottontail darted across the field and disappeared into the bushes. [cottontail: noun]
Example
We saw a family of cottontails while hiking in the woods. [cottontails: plural noun]
rabbit
Example
The children were excited to see the rabbits at the petting zoo. [rabbits: plural noun]
Example
She cooked a delicious rabbit stew for dinner. [rabbit: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rabbit is more commonly used than cottontail in everyday language. Rabbit is a versatile word that can refer to various species and contexts, while cottontail is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cottontail and rabbit?
Both cottontail and rabbit are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.