What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
effluent
Example
The effluent from the factory was contaminating the nearby river. [effluent: noun]
Example
The treatment plant released effluent into the ocean. [effluent: noun]
overflow
Example
The bathtub overflowed and flooded the bathroom. [overflowed: verb]
Example
The river overflowed its banks and caused widespread flooding. [overflow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overflow is more commonly used than effluent in everyday language. Overflow is a versatile term that can be applied to various contexts, while effluent is a technical term used mainly in environmental and industrial settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between effluent and overflow?
Effluent is a technical term that is typically used in formal or technical contexts, while overflow is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
