What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pupa
Example
The caterpillar will soon enter the pupa stage before emerging as a butterfly. [pupa: noun]
Example
The pupating insect remains motionless inside the pupa. [pupating: present participle]
cocoon
Example
The silkworm spins a cocoon around itself before entering the pupa stage. [cocoon: noun]
Example
The caterpillar will build a cocoon around itself before transforming into a butterfly. [cocoon: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cocoon is more commonly used than pupa in everyday language, especially in the context of describing the protective casing spun by certain insects. Pupa is a more technical term used mainly in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pupa and cocoon?
Both pupa and cocoon are formal words, but pupa is more technical and scientific in nature, while cocoon is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
