What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
novillo
Example
The rancher raised a herd of novillos for beef production. [novillo: noun]
Example
The matador faced the fierce novillo in the bullring. [novillo: noun]
steer
Example
The farmer raised a herd of steers for meat production. [steer: noun]
Example
The team of oxen pulled the plow through the field. [oxen: plural of ox, which is a type of steer]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Steer is more commonly used than novillo in everyday language, especially in English-speaking countries. Steer is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts related to male cows that have been castrated, while novillo is a more specific term that is primarily used in Spanish-speaking countries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between novillo and steer?
Both novillo and steer are relatively formal terms that are typically used in agricultural or zoological contexts. However, steer is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while novillo is less common and may be considered more formal due to its specificity.
