Definitions
Diffuse is a verb that means to spread or scatter widely, often pertaining to gases, liquids, or other substances. It can also mean to make something less intense or concentrated.
Example
The scent of lavender diffused through the room.
Example
The speaker tried to diffuse the tension in the room with a joke.
Defuse is a verb that means to make a situation less tense or dangerous, usually by calming people down or removing the source of conflict.
Example
The negotiator was able to defuse the hostage situation.
Example
She defused the argument by changing the subject.
Tips To Remember the Differences
Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:
To remember the difference between these two words, think of diffuse as spreading something out, like a scent or light, while defuse is about taking the heat out of a situation, like a bomb or an argument.
Remember this!
Remember, diffuse means to spread or scatter, while defuse means to make a situation less tense or dangerous.
