What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kestrel
Example
The kestrel is known for its ability to hover in the air while hunting. [kestrel: noun]
Example
I saw a kestrel perched on a fence post while driving through the countryside. [kestrel: noun]
falcon
Example
The peregrine falcon is one of the fastest birds in the world. [falcon: noun]
Example
Falconry has been practiced for thousands of years, using falcons to hunt small game. [falcon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Falcon is more commonly used than kestrel in everyday language. Falcon has a wider range of contexts, including falconry, sports teams, and military aircraft, while kestrel is less common and mainly used to describe the bird of prey.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between kestrel and falcon?
Both kestrel and falcon are formal words and are typically used in scientific or academic contexts. However, falcon may also be used in informal contexts, such as sports teams or popular culture references.