What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
innovation
Example
The company's latest innovation is a smartphone with a foldable screen. [innovation: noun]
Example
She is known for her innovative approach to teaching, using technology to engage students. [innovative: adjective]
invention
Example
Thomas Edison is famous for his invention of the light bulb. [invention: noun]
Example
The inventor spent years working on his latest invention, a device that converts saltwater into drinking water. [inventor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Innovation is more commonly used than invention in everyday language, as it encompasses a broader range of activities and can apply to various fields. Invention is more specific and often associated with scientific or technological breakthroughs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between innovation and invention?
Both innovation and invention can be used in formal and informal contexts, but invention may be more formal due to its association with scientific research and patent law.
