What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hive
Example
The beekeeper carefully inspected the hive to check on the health of the colony. [hive: noun]
Example
The office was a hive of activity as everyone worked to meet the deadline. [hive: noun]
Example
The market was a hive of excitement as people shopped for fresh produce. [hive: adjective]
nest
Example
The robin built a nest in the tree outside my window. [nest: noun]
Example
After a long day at work, I like to come home and nest on the couch with a good book. [nest: verb]
Example
The spy retrieved the secret documents from their nest in the abandoned warehouse. [nest: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nest is more commonly used than hive in everyday language. Nest is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hive is less common and often associated with beekeeping or metaphorical use.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hive and nest?
While hive is typically associated with a more formal tone due to its association with beekeeping, nest is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
