What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
endosymbiosis
Example
Mitochondria are believed to have originated from an endosymbiotic relationship between bacteria and eukaryotic cells. [endosymbiotic: adjective]
Example
Endosymbiosis is a key factor in the evolution of many eukaryotic organisms. [endosymbiosis: noun]
symbiosis
Example
The clownfish and sea anemone have a symbiotic relationship where the clownfish protects the anemone and the anemone provides shelter for the clownfish. [symbiotic: adjective]
Example
Lichens are a symbiosis between fungi and algae. [symbiosis: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Symbiosis is a more common term than endosymbiosis and is used in a wider range of contexts. Endosymbiosis is a more specialized term used primarily in the context of biology and evolution.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between endosymbiosis and symbiosis?
Both endosymbiosis and symbiosis are formal terms used in scientific contexts. However, endosymbiosis may be considered more technical and specialized than symbiosis.
