What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
emu
Example
The emu is the second-largest living bird in the world. [emu: noun]
Example
The emu is an important cultural symbol for many Indigenous Australians. [emu: noun]
Example
The emu can run up to 30 miles per hour. [emu: noun]
bird
Example
The robin is a common bird found in North America. [bird: noun]
Example
Birds have a wide variety of beak shapes and sizes depending on their diet. [birds: noun]
Example
The bald eagle is a bird of prey that can soar through the air for hours. [bird: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bird is a much more common word than emu in everyday language. Bird is a general term that covers a wide range of species, while emu is a specific type of bird that is only found in certain parts of the world.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between emu and bird?
Both emu and bird can be used in formal and informal contexts, but bird is more versatile and can be employed in a wider range of situations.