What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fulmar
Example
The fulmar glided gracefully over the ocean waves. [fulmar: noun]
Example
The fulmar's nostrils help it excrete excess salt from its body. [fulmar: noun]
petrel
Example
The petrel soared high above the ocean, searching for food. [petrel: noun]
Example
The petrel's webbed feet allow it to swim and walk on land. [petrel: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Petrel is more commonly used than fulmar in everyday language. Petrel is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of birds, while fulmar is a specific type of bird that is less commonly known.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fulmar and petrel?
Both fulmar and petrel are formal terms that are typically used in scientific or academic contexts. However, petrel is more versatile and can also be used in everyday language, while fulmar is less common and may be unfamiliar to many people outside of scientific circles.