What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
impregnated
Example
The wood was impregnated with a preservative to prevent rotting. [impregnated: past participle]
Example
The air was impregnated with the smell of freshly baked bread. [impregnated: verb]
permeated
Example
The smell of garlic permeated the entire house. [permeated: past tense]
Example
The rainwater had permeated through the roof and caused damage. [permeated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Permeated is more commonly used than impregnated in everyday language. Permeated is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while impregnated is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between impregnated and permeated?
Both impregnated and permeated can be used in formal and informal contexts, but impregnated may have a more technical or scientific connotation due to its association with materials and chemicals.
