difference between slaughter and massarced

[Optimum]

Synonyms Lesson, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #114 "Synonyms for kill and murder", question 8

Thousands of cows and other cattle were ......... because of the anthrax epidemic a few years ago.

(a) slaughtered
(b) killed
(c) executed
(d) liquidated

Synonyms Lesson, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #114 "Synonyms for kill and murder", answer 8

Thousands of cows and other cattle were slaughtered because of the anthrax epidemic a few years ago.

Correct answer: (a) slaughtered
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difference between slaughter and massarced.
Is massarced is also appropriate?

Optimum

[Alan]

Hi,

'Slaughter' would usually be used for the killing of animals for food or because of disease. The place where this happens is in fact a slaughterhouse. 'Massacre' would usually be used for the widespread, large scale killing of people without any thought as to the number of people or who they are. This is often the action of a ruthless dictator.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story A day in the life of a stately home owner