What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
herbivore
Example
The giraffe is a herbivore that feeds on leaves and shoots. [herbivore: noun]
Example
Deer are herbivorous animals that graze on grass and shrubs. [herbivorous: adjective]
vegetarian
Example
My sister has been a vegetarian for five years and enjoys cooking with tofu and beans. [vegetarian: noun]
Example
I ordered a vegetarian pizza with mushrooms, peppers, and onions. [vegetarian: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vegetarian is more commonly used than herbivore in everyday language. Vegetarian is a well-known term that describes a dietary choice made by millions of people worldwide, while herbivore is a scientific term used primarily in biology and zoology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between herbivore and vegetarian?
Herbivore is a more formal term than vegetarian, which is often used in casual conversation and everyday language. However, both words can be used in formal and scientific contexts.
