What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
viviparous
Example
Most mammals, including humans, are viviparous. [viviparous: adjective]
Example
The viviparous fish gives birth to live young instead of laying eggs. [viviparous: adjective]
ovoviviparous
Example
The boa constrictor is an ovoviviparous snake that gives birth to live young. [ovoviviparous: adjective]
Example
The female shark is ovoviviparous, retaining fertilized eggs inside her body until they hatch. [ovoviviparous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Viviparous is a more common term than ovoviviparous in everyday language, as it applies to a wider range of organisms, including mammals and some plants. Ovoviviparous is less commonly used and mainly applies to certain reptiles and fish.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between viviparous and ovoviviparous?
Both viviparous and ovoviviparous are scientific terms and are typically used in formal contexts, such as biology textbooks and research papers.
