What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hernia
Example
He had to undergo surgery to repair his hernia. [hernia: noun]
Example
The doctor diagnosed him with an inguinal hernia. [hernia: adjective]
protrusion
Example
The protrusion in his lower back caused him a lot of pain. [protrusion: noun]
Example
The tree branch was a dangerous protrusion on the sidewalk. [protrusion: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hernia is a more common term than protrusion in medical contexts, especially when referring to a specific medical condition. However, protrusion is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts beyond medicine.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hernia and protrusion?
Hernia is a formal medical term, while protrusion is a more general and informal term that can be used in various contexts.