What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hominoid
Example
The hominoid family includes gibbons, orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and humans. [hominoid: noun]
Example
The hominoid skull was similar to that of a human. [hominoid: adjective]
hominid
Example
Hominids are characterized by their bipedalism and large brain size. [hominid: noun]
Example
The hominid fossils were found in Africa. [hominid: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hominid is more commonly used than hominoid in scientific literature and everyday language. Hominid is a more specific term that is used to describe the human lineage and its evolution, while hominoid is a broader term that encompasses a wider range of apes and primates.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hominoid and hominid?
Both hominoid and hominid are technical terms that are used in the field of anthropology and evolutionary biology. However, hominid is more commonly used in scientific literature and is considered a more formal term than hominoid.