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 to prevent the spread of infection. [disinfects: verb]
Example
It is important to disinfect your kitchen counters after preparing raw meat. [disinfect: verb]
sanitize
Example
The restaurant staff sanitizes all tables and chairs between customers to maintain cleanliness. [sanitizes: verb]
Example
I always sanitize my hands before eating to avoid getting sick. [sanitize: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sanitize is more commonly used than disinfect in everyday language. Sanitize is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts, while disinfect is more specific and often used in medical or scientific settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between disinfect and sanitize?
Both disinfect and sanitize can be used in formal and informal contexts, but disinfect may be more commonly used in technical or medical settings, while sanitize is more versatile and can be used in various contexts.
