What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pupa
Example
The butterfly remained in its pupa for several weeks before emerging as an adult. [pupa: noun]
Example
The caterpillar stopped eating and began to spin its cocoon, entering the pupa stage of development. [pupa: adjective]
larva
Example
The mosquito larvae were swimming in the stagnant water, feeding on microorganisms. [larvae: plural noun]
Example
The beetle larva burrowed into the soil to pupate and complete its metamorphosis. [larva: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Larva is more commonly used than pupa in everyday language, as it is a more familiar term and refers to the active and feeding stage of insect development.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pupa and larva?
Both pupa and larva are scientific terms and are typically used in formal or technical contexts, such as biology or entomology textbooks.
