What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
infect
Example
The virus can infect anyone who comes into contact with it. [infect: verb]
Example
The negative comments infected her mind and made her feel insecure. [infected: past participle]
infest
Example
The house was infested with cockroaches and mice. [infested: past participle]
Example
The internet is infested with fake news and scams. [infested: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Infect is more commonly used than infest in everyday language, especially in medical or scientific contexts. Infest is more specific and less commonly used, but can be useful in describing the presence of pests or unwanted objects.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between infect and infest?
Infect can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while infest is typically associated with a more informal or negative tone.
