What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cows
Example
The cows were grazing in the field. [cows: noun]
Example
She milks the cows every morning. [cows: plural noun]
heifer
Example
The heifer was grazing with the rest of the herd. [heifer: noun]
Example
They plan to breed the heifers next spring. [heifers: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cows are more commonly used than heifers in everyday language since they are more familiar and versatile. Cows are also more commonly raised for their milk, meat, and as draft animals, making them more prevalent in agriculture and farming.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cows and heifer?
Both cows and heifers are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in academic or professional settings related to agriculture, veterinary medicine, or animal husbandry.