What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pawmark
Example
The pawmarks of the dog were all over the freshly cleaned floor. [pawmark: noun]
Example
I followed the pawmarks in the snow to find the lost puppy. [pawmarks: plural noun]
footprint
Example
The footprint in the wet cement was evidence of the trespasser. [footprint: noun]
Example
I traced my footsteps back by following my footprints in the sand. [footprints: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Footprint is more commonly used than pawmark in everyday language. Footprint is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pawmark is less common and refers specifically to animal paws.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pawmark and footprint?
Both pawmark and footprint are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
