What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
actuated
Example
The machine was actuated by pressing the green button. [actuated: verb]
Example
The coach's speech actuated the team to play their best game. [actuated: past participle]
activate
Example
Please activate your account by clicking on the link in the email. [activate: verb]
Example
The alarm will activate if there is any movement in the room. [activate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Activate is more commonly used than actuated in everyday language. Activate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while actuated is less common and refers to a specific type of initiation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between actuated and activate?
Both actuated and activate are relatively formal words, but activate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.