What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bacteriolytic
Example
The bacteriolytic properties of the antibiotic helped to eliminate the infection. [bacteriolytic: adjective]
Example
The researchers studied the effects of various bacteriolytic agents on different strains of bacteria. [bacteriolytic: noun]
bactericidal
Example
The disinfectant spray has bactericidal properties, effectively killing harmful bacteria. [bactericidal: adjective]
Example
The study aimed to determine the bactericidal activity of the new antibiotic against drug-resistant bacteria. [bactericidal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bactericidal is more commonly used in everyday language and discussions about hygiene or healthcare. It is a term that is easily understood and used by a wider audience. On the other hand, bacteriolytic is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts and may be less familiar to non-experts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bacteriolytic and bactericidal?
In terms of formality, bactericidal is considered more formal than bacteriolytic. Bactericidal is widely used in various contexts, including formal scientific discussions and healthcare settings. Bacteriolytic, being more specialized, is typically used in more technical or academic contexts.
