What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cryptogenic
Example
The patient's seizures were cryptogenic, and the doctors could not determine the cause. [cryptogenic: adjective]
Example
The fire was cryptogenic, and the investigators could not find any evidence of arson. [cryptogenic: adjective]
idiopathic
Example
The patient's chronic pain was idiopathic, and the doctors could not find any underlying conditions. [idiopathic: adjective]
Example
The cause of the patient's sudden blindness was idiopathic, and the doctors could not explain it. [idiopathic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Idiopathic is more commonly used than cryptogenic in medical language. Idiopathic is a more versatile term and can be applied to a wider range of medical conditions, while cryptogenic is less common and is typically used in specific medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cryptogenic and idiopathic?
Both cryptogenic and idiopathic are formal terms used in medical diagnosis and research. They are not commonly used in everyday language and are typically reserved for professional or technical contexts.
