What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
allergenic
Example
Peanuts are one of the most common allergenic foods. [allergenic: adjective]
Example
The allergenic properties of pollen can cause hay fever symptoms in some people. [allergenic: noun]
reactive
Example
Copper is a reactive metal that can corrode over time. [reactive: adjective]
Example
The reactive nature of certain chemicals can be dangerous if not handled properly. [reactive: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reactive is more commonly used than allergenic in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications. Allergenic is more commonly used in medical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between allergenic and reactive?
Both allergenic and reactive can be used in formal or technical contexts, but allergenic may be more associated with medical or scientific jargon.