What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sheep
Example
The farmer had a large herd of sheep on his farm. [sheep: noun]
Example
Sheep are known for their woolly coats, which keep them warm in cold weather. [sheep: noun]
ewe
Example
The ewe gave birth to a healthy lamb last night. [ewe: noun]
Example
Ewes are often used for breeding because of their ability to produce healthy offspring. [ewes: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sheep is a more common term than ewe and is used in a wider range of contexts. Ewe is a more specific term that is primarily used in agricultural and farming settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sheep and ewe?
Both sheep and ewe are relatively informal terms that are commonly used in everyday language. However, ewe may be slightly more formal due to its specific use in agricultural and farming industries.