What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dayfly
Example
The dayfly emerged from the water and fluttered its wings in the sunlight. [dayfly: noun]
Example
The beauty of the sunset was like a dayfly, here one moment and gone the next. [dayfly: simile]
ephemeroptera
Example
The ephemeroptera are important bioindicators of freshwater ecosystems. [ephemeroptera: noun]
Example
Mayflies are part of the order ephemeroptera, which means 'short-lived wings'. [ephemeroptera: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ephemeroptera is a more common term than dayfly, especially in scientific contexts. Dayfly is more likely to be used in literary or poetic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dayfly and ephemeroptera?
Ephemeroptera is a more formal term than dayfly, which has a more casual and whimsical connotation.
