What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flock
Example
The flock of geese flew overhead in a V-formation. [flock: noun]
Example
The shepherd led his flock of sheep to the pasture. [flock: noun]
Example
A flock of tourists gathered around the famous landmark to take photos. [flock: verb]
swarm
Example
The swarm of bees buzzed around the hive. [swarm: noun]
Example
The children swarmed around the ice cream truck when it arrived. [swarmed: past tense]
Example
The store was swarmed with customers during the holiday sale. [swarmed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flock is more commonly used than swarm in everyday language, especially when referring to birds or grazing animals. Swarm is less common and is usually associated with insects or sudden influxes of people or ideas.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between flock and swarm?
Both flock and swarm are generally informal words, but flock can be used in more formal contexts when referring to groups of people or things gathered together for a common purpose or activity.
