What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ferret
Example
I have a pet ferret named Fuzzy. [ferret: noun]
Example
I had to ferret out the truth from the suspect. [ferret: verb]
Example
My neighbor is always ferreting around in other people's business. [ferreting: gerund or present participle]
mink
Example
The mink is a valuable source of fur for the fashion industry. [mink: noun]
Example
She wore a luxurious mink coat to the gala. [mink: adjective]
Example
He's a real mink when it comes to negotiating deals. [mink: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ferret is more commonly used than mink in everyday language. Ferret has a wider range of contexts, including as a noun, verb, or gerund, while mink is primarily used as a noun or adjective to describe clothing or accessories.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ferret and mink?
Both ferret and mink are informal words, but mink may be considered more formal due to its association with luxury fashion and high-end clothing.
