What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decoction
Example
The herbalist recommended a decoction of chamomile and lavender for relaxation. [decoction: noun]
Example
To make the tea, you need to decoct the herbs in boiling water for 10 minutes. [decoct: verb]
concoction
Example
The chef's special concoction included a blend of spices and herbs. [concoction: noun]
Example
His story was a wild concoction of fact and fiction. [concoction: noun]
Example
She had a secret concoction to win the game. [concoction: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Concoction is more commonly used than decoction in everyday language. Concoction is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while decoction is less common and mainly used in a medicinal or herbal context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decoction and concoction?
Both decoction and concoction are formal words, but decoction is more commonly used in a medical or scientific context, while concoction can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
