What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interaction
Example
The interaction between the teacher and the students was positive and engaging. [interaction: noun]
Example
The chemicals had a negative interaction with each other, causing an explosion. [interaction: noun]
contact
Example
I need to get in contact with my boss to discuss my schedule. [contact: noun]
Example
Please do not come into contact with the hot stove. [contact: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contact is more commonly used than interaction in everyday language. Contact is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while interaction is less common and tends to be used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interaction and contact?
Both interaction and contact can be used in formal and informal contexts, but interaction may be perceived as more formal due to its technical or scientific connotations.