What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overbred
Example
The pug's breathing difficulties are a result of being overbred for their flat faces. [overbred: adjective]
Example
The hybrid corn variety was overbred for high yield, but it is now vulnerable to pests and diseases. [overbred: verb]
inbred
Example
The royal family's history of intermarriage has resulted in several cases of inbred children with genetic disorders. [inbred: adjective]
Example
The farmer had to import new breeding stock to prevent inbreeding in his cattle herd. [inbreeding: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inbred is more commonly used than overbred in everyday language, especially in the context of human genetics or cultural practices. Overbred is less common and is typically used in the context of animal or plant breeding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overbred and inbred?
Both overbred and inbred are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
