What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mating
Example
The male and female birds were mating in the tree. [mating: verb]
Example
Mating season is the time when animals are most likely to reproduce. [mating: noun]
breeding
Example
The farmer breeds cows for their milk production. [breeds: verb]
Example
The breeding of dogs for specific traits has led to many different breeds. [breeding: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mating is a more common term in everyday language, while breeding is more commonly used in the context of animal husbandry and agriculture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mating and breeding?
Both mating and breeding can be used in formal and informal contexts, but breeding may be more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
