What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decimator
Example
The decimator circuit reduced the resolution of the digital signal. [decimator: noun]
Example
The army's artillery decimated the enemy's defenses. [decimated: past tense verb]
attenuator
Example
The audio engineer used an attenuator to reduce the volume of the guitar amp. [attenuator: noun]
Example
The medication attenuated the symptoms of the disease. [attenuated: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Attenuator is more commonly used than decimator in everyday language, especially in the context of audio engineering and electronics. Decimator is a more specialized term used primarily in digital signal processing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decimator and attenuator?
Attenuator is a more formal term than decimator, as it is used in technical contexts and has a neutral or positive connotation. Decimator is less formal and has a negative connotation, implying destruction or devastation.
