What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inanition
Example
The prisoner was in a state of inanition after being held captive for weeks without food. [inanition: noun]
Example
The famine caused widespread inanition among the population, leading to many deaths. [inanition: noun]
starvation
Example
The refugees were suffering from starvation after days of being stranded without food. [starvation: noun]
Example
The child's body showed signs of severe starvation, with visible bones and sunken eyes. [starvation: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Starvation is more commonly used than inanition in everyday language. Starvation is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while inanition is less common and often used in medical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inanition and starvation?
Both inanition and starvation are formal words, but inanition may be considered more technical or clinical due to its less common usage.
