What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disinfected
Example
The hospital staff disinfected the room after the patient was discharged. [disinfected: past tense]
Example
It's important to disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches regularly. [disinfect: verb]
sterilized
Example
The surgical tools were sterilized before the operation to ensure patient safety. [sterilized: past tense]
Example
The baby bottles need to be sterilized before use to avoid any risk of infection. [sterilize: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disinfected is more commonly used than sterilized in everyday language, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts. Sterilized is more commonly used in medical and scientific settings where a higher level of cleanliness is required.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disinfected and sterilized?
Sterilized is a more formal term than disinfected, as it is typically used in medical and scientific contexts where precision and accuracy are important. Disinfected is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
