What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
werewolf
Example
The villagers were afraid of the werewolf that roamed the forest at night. [werewolf: noun]
Example
He turned into a werewolf under the light of the full moon. [werewolf: noun]
shapeshifter
Example
The shapeshifter transformed into a bird and flew away. [shapeshifter: noun]
Example
She was a skilled shapeshifter, able to blend in with any crowd. [shapeshifter: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Werewolf is more commonly used than shapeshifter in everyday language, especially in the context of horror and fantasy stories. Shapeshifter is less common but is still used in literature and entertainment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between werewolf and shapeshifter?
Both werewolf and shapeshifter are informal words that are typically used in the context of mythology, folklore, and entertainment. Neither word is considered formal or appropriate for academic or professional writing.