What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incision
Example
The surgeon made an incision in the patient's abdomen to remove the tumor. [incision: noun]
Example
The doctor will need to incise the abscess to drain the pus. [incise: verb]
laceration
Example
The victim suffered a laceration on his arm from the broken glass. [laceration: noun]
Example
She accidentally lacerated her finger while chopping vegetables. [lacerate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Laceration is more commonly used than incision in everyday language, as it refers to a more common type of injury. Incision is more specialized and is typically used in medical or surgical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incision and laceration?
Incision is more formal than laceration, as it is typically used in medical or surgical contexts. Laceration is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.