What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
skunk
Example
The skunk sprayed its scent as a defense mechanism. [skunk: noun]
Example
The smell in the room was so bad, it was like a skunk had sprayed. [skunk: verb]
weed
Example
I need to pull out the weeds from my garden. [weed: noun]
Example
He likes to smoke weed on the weekends. [weed: noun]
Example
That old car is just a weed taking up space in the garage. [weed: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Weed is more commonly used than skunk in everyday language, especially in the context of cannabis. Skunk is less common and may only be familiar to those who are knowledgeable about cannabis strains or animal species.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between skunk and weed?
Neither skunk nor weed are appropriate for formal settings, as they are both informal and may have negative connotations. However, weed is more commonly used in casual conversation and may be more widely recognized than skunk.