What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disinfestant
Example
The hotel uses a disinfestant spray to keep the rooms free of bed bugs. [disinfestant: noun]
Example
I always use a disinfestant wipe to clean my phone after using it in public places. [disinfestant: adjective]
insecticide
Example
We sprayed the garden with insecticide to get rid of the aphids. [insecticide: noun]
Example
The farmer applied insecticide to the crops to prevent damage from pests. [insecticide: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insecticide is more commonly used than disinfestant in everyday language. Insecticide is a more specific term that refers to a product used to kill or control insects, while disinfestant is a broader term that can refer to products used to eliminate or prevent the presence of various pests.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disinfestant and insecticide?
Both disinfestant and insecticide are formal terms used in technical or scientific contexts related to pest control and agriculture.
