What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eradication
Example
The government's goal is the eradication of poverty in the country. [eradication: noun]
Example
The use of pesticides is necessary for the eradication of pests in the crops. [eradication: noun]
elimination
Example
The elimination of unnecessary expenses helped the company save money. [elimination: noun]
Example
The doctor ruled out the possibility of a heart attack after the elimination of other potential causes. [elimination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Elimination is more commonly used than eradication in everyday language. Elimination is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while eradication is less common and often used in specific fields such as health or environmental issues.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eradication and elimination?
Both eradication and elimination can be used in formal or informal contexts, but eradication may have a more serious and urgent connotation, making it more appropriate for formal or technical writing.