What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
purebred
Example
The breeder only sells purebred dogs with pedigrees. [purebred: adjective]
Example
The cat was a purebred Siamese with distinctive blue eyes. [purebred: noun]
thoroughbred
Example
The jockey rode a thoroughbred horse in the race. [thoroughbred: adjective]
Example
The stable only breeds and trains thoroughbred horses for racing. [thoroughbred: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purebred is more commonly used than thoroughbred in everyday language, as it is a more general term that can be applied to a wider range of animals. Thoroughbred is more commonly used in the context of horse racing and breeding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between purebred and thoroughbred?
Both purebred and thoroughbred are relatively formal terms that are commonly used in the context of animal breeding and showing. However, thoroughbred may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with horse racing and other high-end performance activities.
