What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hatchling
Example
The hatchling turtle made its way to the ocean. [hatchling: noun]
Example
The hatchling bird was still too weak to fly. [hatchling: adjective]
chick
Example
The farmer collected the eggs and placed them in the incubator to hatch into chicks. [chicks: plural noun]
Example
The mother hen kept her chicks close to her for warmth. [chicks: collective noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chick is more commonly used than hatchling in everyday language, especially in the context of farming and agriculture. Hatchling is less common and is primarily used in scientific or zoological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hatchling and chick?
Both hatchling and chick are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation. However, hatchling may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with scientific terminology and zoology.