What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pests
Example
The garden was infested with pests that ate all the vegetables. [pests: noun]
Example
Mosquitoes are common pests that can spread diseases like malaria. [pests: noun]
vermin
Example
The restaurant had a problem with vermin in the kitchen. [vermin: noun]
Example
I hate going to the basement because of all the vermin running around. [vermin: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pests is more commonly used than vermin in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pests and vermin?
Both pests and vermin are informal terms that are commonly used in casual conversation. However, vermin may be considered more informal and less appropriate for formal situations.
