What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fissile
Example
Mica is a fissile mineral that can be split into thin sheets. [fissile: adjective]
Example
The rock was fissile and broke apart easily when struck with a hammer. [fissile: adjective]
fissionable
Example
Uranium-235 is a fissionable material used in nuclear reactors. [fissionable: adjective]
Example
Plutonium-239 is a fissionable element that can be used in nuclear weapons. [fissionable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fissile is a more common term than fissionable in everyday language, as it has a broader scope of application. However, both words are technical terms used in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fissile and fissionable?
Both fissile and fissionable are technical terms used in scientific contexts, and therefore, they are considered formal language.
