What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
condensate
Example
The air conditioning unit produced a lot of condensate due to the high humidity. [condensate: noun]
Example
The cold glass of water was covered in condensate droplets. [condensate: adjective]
dew
Example
The morning dew made the grass glisten in the sunlight. [dew: noun]
Example
The leaves were covered in dew after the overnight rain. [dew: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dew is more commonly used than condensate in everyday language, especially when describing weather conditions. Condensate is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts, such as in air conditioning or refrigeration systems.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between condensate and dew?
Condensate is typically associated with technical or scientific contexts, making it more formal than dew. Dew is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.