What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pollywog
Example
The pollywog swam in the pond, growing bigger each day. [pollywog: noun]
Example
The children were fascinated by the pollywogs in the creek, watching them wiggle and swim. [pollywogs: plural noun]
tadpole
Example
The tadpole grew legs and became a frog. [tadpole: noun]
Example
The pond was full of tadpoles, wriggling and swimming in the water. [tadpoles: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tadpole is more commonly used than pollywog in everyday language, especially in British English. Pollywog is less common and may be considered outdated in some contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pollywog and tadpole?
While tadpole is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, pollywog is typically associated with a casual and informal tone.
