What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
calcify
Example
Over time, the plaque in your arteries can calcify and lead to heart disease. [calcify: verb]
Example
The doctor explained that the injury caused the tissue to calcify, resulting in limited mobility. [calcify: verb]
petrify
Example
The volcanic ash quickly petrified the trees, preserving them for thousands of years. [petrified: past tense]
Example
The loud noise from the explosion petrified the entire crowd. [petrified: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Calcify is more commonly used in medical or scientific contexts, while petrify is more commonly used in geological or paleontological contexts. Calcify is a more specialized term, while petrify has a broader range of applications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between calcify and petrify?
Both calcify and petrify are formal words, but calcify is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while petrify can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
