Difference Between Poisonous and Venomous

Difference Between Poisonous and Venomous

Poisonous vs. Venomous

History:

The words “poisonous” and “venomous” both comes from Latin roots and have been used to describe harmful substances since early English times.

How to use them:

“Poisonous” is used when something will harm you if you touch it or consume it, while “venomous” is used when something harmful is injected into you by a bite or sting.

Trick to Remember the Difference:

Think of “poisonous” as something with venom that is harmful if you eat or touch, while “venomous” is something that bites you and injects poison.

Examples of “Poisonous”:

• The berries in the garden are poisonous if you eat them.
• The snake’s skin is covered in a poisonous substance.
• Be careful, as some mushrooms are poisonous.
• The frog’s skin secretes a poisonous liquid.
• Never touch a plant if you are unsure if it’s poisonous.

Examples of “Venomous”:

• The snake is venomous and can inject poison with its bite.
• Watch out for the venomous fangs of the spider.
• The scorpion is a venomous creature with a painful sting.
• Only certain types of spiders are venomous to humans.
• Be cautious of the venomous barbs on the jellyfish tentacles.

Summary:

Remember, if it can bite or sting you to inject poison, it’s “venomous.” If it can harm you if you touch or eat it, it’s “poisonous.”