Search blog

Alligator and Crocodile: What Are They? The Difference Between Alligator and Crocodile

Alligator and Crocodile are known as "cá sấu" in Vietnamese; however, these terms describe two different species of reptiles with distinct physical characteristics. Let's explore this further below!

I. What is an Alligator?
II. What is a Crocodile?
III. How Do Alligators and Crocodiles Differ?

I. What is an Alligator?

"Alligator" is pronounced /ˈæl.ə.ɡeɪ.t̬ɚ/ and refers to a species of crocodilian found in the humid, warm regions of the Americas and China. It has a broader, shorter snout compared to the crocodile. For example:

While visiting the swamp, we saw a large alligator sunning itself on the riverbank.
The children were excited to watch the alligator being fed at the zoo's reptile exhibit.

Phrases/Terms Associated with Alligator:

Meaning

Example

Alligator clip

/ˈælɪˌɡeɪtər klɪp/

Alligator clips refer to a type of metal clasp that resembles the mouth of an alligator, commonly used to connect wires or link electronic components.

Additionally, alligator is also a colloquial term for avocado due to its shape, which can be reminiscent of an alligator's body.

To connect the wires to the battery, he used an alligator clip to make a secure connection.

Alligator pear

/ˈælɪˌɡeɪtər pɛər/

Alligator clips refer to a type of metal clasp that resembles the mouth of an alligator, commonly used to connect wires or link electronic components.

Additionally, alligator is also a colloquial term for avocado due to its shape, which can be reminiscent of an alligator's body.

She added slices of alligator pear to the salad for extra flavor.

II. What is a Crocodile?

"Crocodile" is pronounced /ˈkrɑː.kə.daɪl/ and refers to a species of crocodilian that lives in and around rivers and lakes in warm, humid regions around the world. This species has a longer and flatter snout compared to alligators. For example:

While on safari, we spotted a crocodile lurking in the river, waiting for its prey.
John lost an arm to a crocodile.

Phrases/Terms Associated with Crocodile:

Example

Crocodile clip

/ˈkrɒkədaɪl klɪp/

To securely attach the wires, he used a crocodile clip to ensure a stable connection.

Crocodile tears

/ˈkrɒkədaɪl tɪəz/

Her apologies seemed like crocodile tears, as she showed no real remorse for her actions.

III. How Do Alligators and Crocodiles Differ?

What are the differences between alligators and crocodiles? Let's explore the details below!

	Alligator	Crocodile
Teeth	When its mouth is closed, only the upper teeth are visible.	When its mouth is closed, both sets of teeth are visible.
Snout	Has a long, V-shaped snout	Has a wider, U-shaped snout
Humps (boss)	Two rows of bumps, with two on one row and four on the other.	Two rows of bumps, with one row having four and the other having two.
Feet	Webbed feet between toes	Toes are separately spaced.
Size	Generally smaller than crocodiles (max weight around 450 kg).	Generally larger than alligators (weight over 1000 kg).
Speed	54 km/h	34 km/h
Color	Mature alligators are dark green or black-gray (darker than crocodiles). Young alligators are black with yellow stripes.	Mature crocodiles are olive green, brown, and light gray. Young crocodiles are light brown with black spots.
Habitat	Found only in two countries: the United States (Southeastern regions) and China (Eastern regions). Can hold breath underwater for up to 24 hours.	Can be found all over the world. Can hold breath underwater for about 2 hours.
Breeding Environment	Lays eggs in vegetation or clean water areas.	Lays eggs in sand or mud.
Lifespan	Typically 30 – 70 years.	Typically 50 – 140 years.

You can refer to a more detailed comparison of the differences between alligators and crocodiles by watching the video below!

Alligator vs Crocodile: What's the Difference

In this article, PREP has shared with you the concepts and differences between alligators and crocodiles. Be sure to follow PREP regularly to stay updated with more valuable English knowledge!

Master Tu Pham

Founder/CEO at Prep

Founder of Prep Smart Test Preparation Platform. With over 10 years of experience in teaching and test preparation, Mr. Tú has helped thousands of students achieve high scores in the IELTS exam. In addition, Mr. Tú Phạm is also a consulting expert in British Council programs and a speaker at many leading educational events, programs, and conferences.