What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
catabolism
Example
During catabolism, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose for energy. [catabolism: noun]
Example
The body uses catabolism to break down fats and proteins for various cellular functions. [catabolism: noun]
degradation
Example
The degradation of plastic waste is a major environmental concern. [degradation: noun]
Example
Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause the degradation of paint on outdoor surfaces. [degradation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Degradation is more commonly used than catabolism in everyday language. Degradation has a wider range of applications and can be used in different contexts, while catabolism is more specific to biological and biochemical processes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between catabolism and degradation?
Both catabolism and degradation are formal terms, commonly used in scientific and technical contexts. However, catabolism is more specialized and may be used in more specific scientific discussions, while degradation has broader usage across various fields.
