What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contaminated
Example
The water in the river was contaminated with chemicals from the factory. [contaminated: adjective]
Example
The food was contaminated with salmonella, causing many people to get sick. [contaminated: past participle]
tainted
Example
The milk had a tainted smell and taste, so we threw it out. [tainted: adjective]
Example
The investigation was tainted by the involvement of corrupt officials. [tainted: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contaminated is more commonly used than tainted in scientific or technical contexts, while tainted is more commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contaminated and tainted?
Contaminated is more formal than tainted, which is more casual and informal.
