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Poisonous vs Venomous
Difference, Examples & Quiz

What's the difference? Which one is correct?

Poisonous

Definition: Capable of causing injury, illness, or death by chemical means.

Usage: Poisonous substances can be found in certain plants, animals, and chemicals.

Example sentences:
  • 1. The berries of this plant are poisonous if ingested.
  • 2. Exposure to poisonous gases can be fatal.
  • 3. It is important to wear protective gloves when handling poisonous chemicals.
Venomous

Definition: Capable of injecting venom into a victim through a bite or sting.

Usage: Venomous animals use their venom as a defense mechanism or to immobilize their prey.

Example sentences:
  • 1. The snake's venomous bite can cause paralysis.
  • 2. The scorpion has a venomous sting that can be extremely painful.
  • 3. Venomous spiders inject venom into their prey to subdue them.

Poisonous and venomous are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. Poisonous refers to something that is harmful when ingested, inhaled, or touched. Venomous, on the other hand, refers to an animal that injects venom through a bite or sting. It's important to use these terms correctly to convey the intended meaning.

Quizzes about "Poisonous" vs "Venomous"

Poisonous vs Venomous: 5 Quizzes

1. What does it mean for a species to be poisonous?

2. What does it mean for a species to be venomous?

3. Which term describes a species that produces toxins?

4. Which term describes a species that injects venom?

5. Which type of species produces toxins that can be harmful when consumed?

FAQs

  • What does it mean for something to be poisonous?

    Something is considered poisonous if it can cause harm or death when ingested, touched, or inhaled.

  • What are some examples of poisonous substances?

    Examples of poisonous substances include certain plants, chemicals, drugs, and household products.

  • How can you protect yourself from poisonous substances?

    To protect yourself from poisonous substances, it is important to read labels, store chemicals properly, and avoid ingesting or inhaling unknown substances.

  • What is the difference between poisonous and venomous?

    While both terms refer to substances that can cause harm, poisonous substances are harmful when touched, ingested, or inhaled, whereas venomous substances are harmful when injected into the body through a bite or sting.

  • Give an example of a venomous animal.

    One example of a venomous animal is a snake, which injects venom into its prey or potential threats through its fangs.