What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

crawdad

Example

I caught a crawdad in the creek behind my house. [crawdad: noun]

Example

Let's have a crawdad boil for dinner tonight. [crawdad: noun]

crawfish

Example

I ordered a plate of crawfish etouffee at the Cajun restaurant. [crawfish: noun]

Example

We went crawfishing in the bayou and caught a bunch. [crawfishing: verb]

Definitions of crawdad and crawfish

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Key differences and similarities of crawdad and crawfish

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Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Crawfish is more commonly used than crawdad in everyday language, especially in the Southern United States. Crawfish is also more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crawdad and crawfish?

Crawfish is more formal than crawdad, which is considered more informal and less common. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.