What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disinfect
Example
The hospital staff disinfects all surfaces in the patient's room after they leave. [disinfects: verb]
Example
It's important to disinfect your hands regularly to prevent the spread of germs. [disinfect: verb]
decontaminate
Example
The hazmat team was called in to decontaminate the area after the chemical spill. [decontaminate: verb]
Example
The workers had to wear protective gear to decontaminate the radioactive waste. [decontaminate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disinfect is more commonly used than decontaminate in everyday language, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts. Decontaminate is more specific and is often used in industrial or hazardous situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between disinfect and decontaminate?
Decontaminate is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while disinfect is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
