What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hyena
Example
The hyena is a skilled hunter, often taking down prey much larger than itself. [hyena: noun]
Example
The hyena's laugh can be heard echoing through the savannah at night. [hyena's: possessive adjective]
scavenger
Example
Vultures are one of the most well-known scavengers, feeding on carrion and carcasses. [scavengers: plural noun]
Example
Scavengers like beetles and worms help break down organic matter and return nutrients to the soil. [scavengers: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scavenger is a more commonly used term than hyena in everyday language, as it is a broader term that can refer to a wide range of organisms. Hyena is a more specialized term that is less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hyena and scavenger?
Both hyena and scavenger are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
