What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
frog
Example
The frog jumped into the pond with a splash. [frog: noun]
Example
The frogs were croaking loudly in the swamp. [frogs: plural noun]
Example
My friend's family is originally from France, so she's a bit of a frog herself. [frog: slang]
toad
Example
The toad sat motionless on the rock. [toad: noun]
Example
He's such a toad, always making rude comments. [toad: slang]
Example
I need a new trowel for spreading the plaster. Do you have a toad I can borrow? [toad: tool]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Frog is more commonly used than toad in everyday language. Frog is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, including biology, mythology, and slang. In contrast, toad is less common and is mostly used to describe the amphibian or as a slang term for an unattractive person.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between frog and toad?
Both frog and toad are generally informal words, but frog can be used in more formal contexts, such as scientific writing or literature, while toad is mostly used in casual conversation or slang.