What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
millipede
Example
The millipede crawled slowly across the forest floor. [millipede: noun]
Example
Millipedes are known for their many legs and segmented bodies. [millipedes: plural noun]
centipede
Example
The centipede darted across the room, startling the guests. [centipede: noun]
Example
Centipedes have sharp claws and venomous fangs to catch their prey. [centipedes: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Centipede is more commonly used than millipede in everyday language. Centipede is often associated with fear and danger due to its potential venomous bite, while millipede is less commonly encountered and is generally considered harmless.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between millipede and centipede?
Both millipede and centipede are relatively formal terms and may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, centipede may be used more frequently in informal contexts due to its association with fear and danger.