Is animal a general word or a specific word?

It is a general word. It can mean almost any living creature that is not a plant.

Can I use animal for people?

Usually, no. It can sound rude unless you mean humans in biology.

What is the difference between animal and beast?

Animal is neutral and common. Beast is stronger, older, and often sounds literary or negative.

← Dictionary

animal

/ˈæn.ɪ.məl/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A living creature that is not a plant, bird, fish, insect, or human. Animals eat, move, and grow.

The farm has many animals.
Humans are animals too.
The zoo keeps wild animals.

Adinary Nuance

Animal is the broad, everyday word for a living creature that is not a plant or human. It is more general than mammal, pet, or wildlife. In formal science, people may use animal for the whole kingdom, including humans in a biological sense.

In other languages

Vietnamese: động vật
Spanish: animal
Chinese: 动物
Japanese: 動物
Korean: 동물

Etymology

From Latin *animal*, meaning 'living being', from *anima* meaning 'breath' or 'life'. The word entered English through Old French in the Middle Ages.

Common phrases

animal lifeanimal kingdomwild animalpet animal

Synonyms

creature beast organism

Related words

mammal pet wildlife biology

Frequently asked questions

Is animal a general word or a specific word?: It is a general word. It can mean almost any living creature that is not a plant.
Can I use animal for people?: Usually, no. It can sound rude unless you mean humans in biology.
What is the difference between animal and beast?: Animal is neutral and common. Beast is stronger, older, and often sounds literary or negative.