What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
invertebrate
Example
The butterfly is an invertebrate with six legs. [invertebrate: noun]
Example
Invertebrates make up the majority of animal species on Earth. [invertebrates: plural noun]
arthropod
Example
The spider is an arthropod with eight legs. [arthropod: noun]
Example
Arthropods are the most diverse group of animals on Earth. [arthropods: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Invertebrate is a more common term than arthropod and is used in everyday language to describe animals without a backbone. Arthropod is a more specialized term used primarily in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between invertebrate and arthropod?
Both invertebrate and arthropod are formal terms used primarily in scientific contexts. However, invertebrate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
