What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oxen
Example
The farmer used his oxen to plow the field. [oxen: noun]
Example
The oxen were harnessed together to pull the heavy load. [oxen: plural noun]
bull
Example
The bull charged at the matador during the bullfight. [bull: noun]
Example
The farmer kept a bull with his cows for breeding. [bull: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bull is more commonly used than oxen in everyday language. Bull is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oxen is less common and refers specifically to male cattle used for work.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between oxen and bull?
While oxen is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, bull is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.