What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fasciculation
Example
The patient complained of fasciculations in their leg muscles. [fasciculations: noun]
Example
The doctor observed fasciculating muscles during the physical examination. [fasciculating: verb]
spasm
Example
The athlete suffered from a spasm in their back muscles after lifting weights. [spasm: noun]
Example
She spasmed in pain when the doctor pressed on her sore muscle. [spasmed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spasm is more commonly used than fasciculation in everyday language, especially when referring to muscle cramps or knots. Fasciculation is a medical term that is less common and often used in the context of neurological conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fasciculation and spasm?
Both fasciculation and spasm are formal terms used in medical contexts. However, spasm may also be used in informal contexts to describe sudden and painful muscle contractions.
