What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cub
Example
The mother bear was fiercely protective of her cubs. [cubs: plural noun]
Example
He's still a cub in the business world, but he's eager to learn. [cub: noun]
Example
This studio apartment is perfect for a single cub like me. [cub: adjective]
whelp
Example
The whelp was playful and energetic, chasing after its tail. [whelp: noun]
Example
The dog whelped a litter of six adorable puppies. [whelped: past tense verb]
Example
Don't listen to that whelp, he doesn't know what he's talking about. [whelp: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cub is more commonly used than whelp in everyday language, and it has a wider range of contexts. Whelp is less common and may be considered more formal or archaic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cub and whelp?
Cub is generally more informal and casual, while whelp may be considered more formal or archaic due to its limited usage in modern language.
