What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extinction
Example
The extinction of dinosaurs happened millions of years ago. [extinction: noun]
Example
The extinction of traditional farming practices is a concern for many rural communities. [extinction: noun]
eradication
Example
The eradication of smallpox was a major public health achievement. [eradication: noun]
Example
The government is working on eradicating invasive species from the national park. [eradicating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extinction is more commonly used than eradication in the context of environmental conservation and the natural world. However, eradication is more commonly used in the context of disease control and pest management.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extinction and eradication?
Eradication is often associated with a more formal tone, as it is commonly used in scientific and technical contexts. Extinction can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context of use.
