What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ostrich
Example
The ostrich is the largest bird in the world. [ostrich: noun]
Example
He's such an ostrich, always avoiding any difficult conversations. [ostrich: adjective]
Example
She's an ostrich when it comes to her finances, refusing to acknowledge her debt. [ostrich: noun]
emu
Example
The emu is the second-largest bird in the world. [emu: noun]
Example
I tried emu meat for the first time and it was surprisingly delicious. [emu: noun]
Example
She's like an emu, always finding a way to make things work. [emu: simile]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ostrich is more commonly known and used than emu. Ostriches are often featured in zoos and wildlife parks, and their meat and feathers are used for commercial purposes. Emus, on the other hand, are less common and not as widely known.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ostrich and emu?
Both ostrich and emu are neutral in formality and can be used in various contexts without sounding too formal or informal.
