What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
epidemic
Example
The flu epidemic affected thousands of people in the city. [epidemic: noun]
Example
The disease spread like an epidemic, infecting many people in a short period of time. [epidemic: adjective]
infection
Example
The wound became infected and required medical attention. [infection: noun]
Example
She was diagnosed with a bacterial infection and prescribed antibiotics. [infection: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Infection is more commonly used than epidemic in everyday language since infections are more common and can occur on a smaller scale. However, epidemic is more commonly used in the context of public health and disease control.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between epidemic and infection?
Epidemic is typically associated with a more formal tone since it is often used in the context of public health and disease control. Infection is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
