What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bacteriocidal
Example
This disinfectant spray is bacteriocidal, meaning it can kill harmful bacteria. [bacteriocidal: adjective]
Example
The antibiotic has bacteriocidal properties, which means it can effectively eliminate bacterial infections. [bacteriocidal: noun]
bactericidal
Example
The hand sanitizer contains bactericidal ingredients that can eliminate harmful bacteria. [bactericidal: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed a bactericidal medication to treat the bacterial infection. [bactericidal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bactericidal is more commonly used than bacteriocidal in everyday language. Bactericidal is a term that is widely recognized and understood, making it more common in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bacteriocidal and bactericidal?
While bactericidal is less formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, bacteriocidal is more formal and scientific-sounding, often used in technical or scientific discussions.
