What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shrewmouse
Example
The shrewmouse scurried across the forest floor, searching for its next meal. [shrewmouse: noun]
Example
Shrewmice are known for their high metabolic rate and need to eat frequently. [shrewmice: plural noun]
shrew
Example
The shrew darted through the underbrush, searching for its next meal. [shrew: noun]
Example
Watch out for shrews, they can be dangerous if provoked. [shrews: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shrew is more commonly used than shrewmouse in everyday language. Shrew is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while shrewmouse is less common and may be unfamiliar to many people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shrewmouse and shrew?
Both shrewmouse and shrew are relatively informal words and are unlikely to be used in formal contexts.