What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
administering
Example
The nurse is responsible for administering the medication to the patient. [administering: verb]
Example
The principal is in charge of administering the school's policies and procedures. [administering: present participle]
dispensing
Example
The pharmacist is responsible for dispensing the medication to the patient. [dispensing: verb]
Example
The vending machine is dispensing snacks to the customers. [dispensing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dispensing is more commonly used than administering in everyday language, especially in the context of pharmacies and medication. However, administering is more common in medical and healthcare settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between administering and dispensing?
Administering is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, while dispensing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the setting and situation.
