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 people who come into contact with contaminated surfaces. [infect: verb]
Example
The wound became infected and required medical attention. [infected: past participle]
transmit
Example
Mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria and dengue fever. [transmit: verb]
Example
The radio station transmits its signal across the city. [transmits: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Transmit is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as in scientific or technical writing, while infect is more commonly used in everyday language to describe the spread of diseases or illnesses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between infect and transmit?
Transmit is more formal than infect, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
