What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
autoclave
Example
The surgical instruments were placed in the autoclave to ensure they were sterile. [autoclave: noun]
Example
The lab technician autoclaved the petri dishes before conducting the experiment. [autoclaved: past tense verb]
retort
Example
The chemist used a retort to distill the liquid and separate its components. [retort: noun]
Example
She carefully retorted the mixture to observe the chemical reaction. [retorted: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Autoclave is more commonly used than retort in everyday language, especially in medical and laboratory contexts. Retort is more specialized and specific to scientific and chemical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between autoclave and retort?
Both autoclave and retort are formal terms used in technical and scientific contexts. However, autoclave is more commonly encountered in everyday language due to its association with medical and laboratory practices.
