What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inhibitor
Example
The drug acts as an inhibitor to prevent the spread of cancer cells. [inhibitor: noun]
Example
The presence of an inhibitor can slow down the rate of a chemical reaction. [inhibitor: noun]
suppressor
Example
The suppressor on the gun helped to reduce the sound of the shot. [suppressor: noun]
Example
The suppressor gene can prevent the development of cancerous cells. [suppressor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inhibitor is more commonly used than suppressor in scientific and medical contexts. Suppressor is more specialized and is mainly used in genetics and electronics.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between inhibitor and suppressor?
Both inhibitor and suppressor are formal words that are typically used in technical or scientific contexts. However, inhibitor is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while suppressor is more specialized and is mainly used in formal or technical contexts.