What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hypnotic
Example
The dancer's movements were so hypnotic that the audience was entranced. [hypnotic: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed a hypnotic to help the patient sleep. [hypnotic: noun]
sedative
Example
The dentist gave me a sedative to help me relax during the procedure. [sedative: noun]
Example
The sound of the ocean waves had a sedative effect on me, and I fell asleep. [sedative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sedative is more commonly used than hypnotic in everyday language. Sedative is a more versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while hypnotic is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hypnotic and sedative?
Both hypnotic and sedative are formal words that are commonly used in medical contexts. However, sedative is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, while hypnotic is less common and may be associated with alternative or mystical practices.
