What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
antimicrobial
Example
This hand sanitizer is effective against a wide range of antimicrobial agents. [antimicrobial: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed an antimicrobial cream to treat the infection. [antimicrobial: noun]
antifungal
Example
She used an antifungal spray to get rid of the mold in her bathroom. [antifungal: adjective]
Example
The doctor recommended an antifungal medication to treat the persistent nail fungus. [antifungal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Antimicrobial is a more commonly used term in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of microorganisms and infections. Antifungal, although less common, is still widely recognized in medical and healthcare contexts when referring to treatments for fungal infections.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between antimicrobial and antifungal?
Both antimicrobial and antifungal can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, antimicrobial is more versatile and can be employed in a wider range of settings, including healthcare, household cleaning, and personal care products.
