Definitions and Examples of toxic, poisonous, harmful
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Containing poisonous substances that can cause harm or death.
Example
The fumes from the factory were so toxic that they caused respiratory problems for the nearby residents.
Containing or producing poison that can cause illness or death.
Example
The berries on that tree are poisonous and should not be eaten.
Causing or capable of causing harm or damage.
Example
Excessive exposure to the sun's rays can be harmful to your skin.
Key Differences: toxic vs poisonous vs harmful
- 1Toxic refers to substances that contain poisonous substances that can cause harm or death.
- 2Poisonous refers to substances that produce poison that can cause illness or death.
- 3Harmful refers to substances that are capable of causing harm or damage.
Effective Usage of toxic, poisonous, harmful
- 1Science: Use these antonyms when discussing chemical reactions, environmental hazards, or toxicology.
- 2Health: Use these antonyms when discussing the effects of substances on the human body.
- 3Safety: Use these antonyms when discussing safety protocols, warning labels, or hazardous materials.
Remember this!
The antonyms of nontoxic are toxic, poisonous, and harmful. These words describe substances that can cause harm to living organisms. Use these words in scientific, health, and safety contexts to discuss chemical reactions, environmental hazards, toxicology, effects of substances on the human body, safety protocols, warning labels, or hazardous materials.