What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
haunch
Example
The horse was limping on its haunch after the fall. [haunch: noun]
Example
She sat on her haunches to get a better view of the stage. [haunches: plural noun]
buttock
Example
He fell down and landed on his buttocks. [buttocks: plural noun]
Example
The chef recommended the rump steak, which is cut from the buttock of the cow. [buttock: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Buttock is more commonly used than haunch in everyday language, especially in the context of human anatomy. Haunch is less common and is mostly used in the context of animals or in more formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between haunch and buttock?
Haunch is considered more formal than buttock, which is more informal and can have vulgar connotations in certain contexts.
