What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consumable
Example
The printer requires consumable ink cartridges to print documents. [consumable: adjective]
Example
We need to restock the consumables for the lab experiments. [consumables: noun]
expendable
Example
The company views its employees as expendable and easily replaceable. [expendable: adjective]
Example
We can use expendable materials for this prototype since it's not the final product. [expendable: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consumable is more commonly used than expendable in everyday language. Consumable is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of products and contexts, while expendable is more specific and limited in its definition.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between consumable and expendable?
Both consumable and expendable are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
