What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
catalyze
Example
The enzyme catalyzes the conversion of substrate into product. [catalyzes: verb]
Example
Her innovative idea catalyzed a positive change in the company. [catalyzed: past tense]
activate
Example
Please activate your account by clicking on the confirmation link. [activate: verb]
Example
The alarm system automatically activates when motion is detected. [activates: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Activate is more commonly used than catalyze in everyday language. Activate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while catalyze is more specific and commonly used in scientific or technical fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between catalyze and activate?
While catalyze is typically associated with a more formal and technical tone, activate is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
