What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barren
Example
The desert is a barren landscape with no signs of vegetation. [barren: adjective]
Example
The couple tried for years, but unfortunately, they remained barren. [barren: adjective]
sterile
Example
The surgical instruments must be kept sterile to prevent infections. [sterile: adjective]
Example
Due to a medical condition, she was told she would be sterile and unable to conceive. [sterile: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Barren is more commonly used than sterile in everyday language, especially when describing landscapes or environments. Sterile is more commonly used in medical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between barren and sterile?
Both barren and sterile can be used in formal and informal contexts, but sterile is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing.
