What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diapause
Example
The insect entered diapause to survive the harsh winter. [diapause: noun]
Example
The seeds remained in diapause until the right conditions for germination were met. [diapause: noun]
dormancy
Example
The bear went into dormancy during the winter months. [dormancy: noun]
Example
The plant remained dormant until the spring thaw. [dormant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dormancy is a more commonly used term than diapause in everyday language, as it is a broader term that can be applied to a wider range of contexts and organisms.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between diapause and dormancy?
Both diapause and dormancy are technical terms used primarily in scientific contexts and are therefore considered formal language.
