What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
benign
Example
The doctor assured me that the tumor is benign and does not pose any health risks. [benign: adjective]
Example
She has a benign personality and always treats others with kindness and respect. [benign: adjective]
innocuous
Example
Don't worry, the spider you saw is innocuous and not poisonous. [innocuous: adjective]
Example
His comment was innocuous and did not offend anyone. [innocuous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Innocuous is more commonly used than benign in everyday language. Innocuous is a word that can be easily understood and used in a wide range of situations, while benign is more specific and commonly used in medical or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between benign and innocuous?
While benign is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, innocuous is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
