What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stonefly
Example
The stonefly is a common insect found in freshwater habitats. [stonefly: noun]
Example
I caught a trout using a stonefly as bait. [stonefly: noun]
plecoptera
Example
Plecoptera is an order of insects that includes stoneflies and other aquatic insects. [Plecoptera: noun]
Example
The larvae of Plecoptera are often used as indicators of water quality. [Plecoptera: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stonefly is more commonly used than plecoptera in everyday language, especially in North America.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stonefly and plecoptera?
Plecoptera is a more formal and technical term that is commonly used in scientific contexts, while stonefly is more casual and informal.