What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dolphin
Example
We saw a pod of dolphins swimming alongside our boat. [dolphins: noun]
Example
The dolphin trainer taught us about their intelligence and communication skills. [dolphin: singular noun]
whale
Example
We went on a whale watching tour and saw several humpback whales. [whales: plural noun]
Example
The blue whale is the largest animal on earth. [whale: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dolphin is more commonly used than whale in everyday language, as it is a more familiar and relatable creature. However, whale is still a well-known and recognized animal, especially in the context of conservation and environmental issues.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dolphin and whale?
Both dolphin and whale are relatively formal words, as they are scientific terms used to describe specific types of marine mammals. However, whale may be slightly more formal due to its association with conservation and environmental activism.
