What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
antiseptic
Example
The nurse applied antiseptic to the patient's wound before bandaging it. [antiseptic: noun]
Example
You should use antiseptic wipes to clean the countertops in the kitchen. [antiseptic: adjective]
sanitizer
Example
Make sure to use hand sanitizer before entering the store. [sanitizer: noun]
Example
The school provided sanitizing wipes for students to clean their desks. [sanitizing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sanitizer is more commonly used than antiseptic in everyday language. Sanitizer has become a household term, especially during times of illness or pandemic, while antiseptic is more specific to medical or healthcare contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between antiseptic and sanitizer?
Both antiseptic and sanitizer can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, antiseptic is more commonly associated with a formal tone due to its connection with medical or healthcare settings.
