What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
carburise
Example
The steel is carburized to enhance its durability and resistance to wear. [carburize: verb]
Example
Carburizing is commonly used in the manufacturing of gears and other mechanical components. [carburizing: gerund or present participle]
carbonate
Example
When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, which can then carbonate minerals in the ground. [carbonate: verb]
Example
The sparkling water is infused with carbon dioxide to give it a refreshing carbonated effect. [carbonated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carbonate is more commonly used than carburise in everyday language. Carbonate has a wider range of applications, including geology, chemistry, and the food and beverage industry. On the other hand, carburise is more specific to industrial processes, particularly in metalworking.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between carburise and carbonate?
Both carburise and carbonate are technical terms and are more commonly used in formal or specialized contexts rather than in casual conversations.