What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
epiparasite
Example
The wasp is an epiparasite that lays its eggs in the larvae of other insects. [epiparasite: noun]
Example
The mistletoe is an epiparasitic plant that grows on the branches of trees. [epiparasitic: adjective]
hyperparasite
Example
The wasp is a hyperparasite that feeds on the larvae of other parasitic wasps. [hyperparasite: noun]
Example
The fungus is a hyperparasitic organism that attacks and feeds on other fungi. [hyperparasitic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Epiparasite is more commonly used than hyperparasite in everyday language. Epiparasite is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts, while hyperparasite is a more specific term that is less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between epiparasite and hyperparasite?
Both epiparasite and hyperparasite are technical terms that are more likely to be used in scientific or academic contexts. They are less commonly used in informal or everyday language.
