What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
irreversible
Example
The patient's cancer was declared irreversible by the doctors. [irreversible: adjective]
Example
The damage to the environment caused by pollution is irreversible. [irreversible: adjective]
terminal
Example
The patient was diagnosed with terminal cancer and given only a few months to live. [terminal: adjective]
Example
The train station has a terminal for buses and taxis. [terminal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Terminal is more commonly used than irreversible in medical contexts, especially when referring to a disease or condition that will result in death. Irreversible is less common but can be used in a broader range of situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between irreversible and terminal?
Both irreversible and terminal are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as medical or legal settings.
