What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lactation
Example
Lactation typically begins after childbirth. [lactation: noun]
Example
The hormone prolactin stimulates lactation in nursing mothers. [lactation: noun]
nursing
Example
She is nursing her baby every two hours. [nursing: verb]
Example
The hospital has a team of skilled nursing professionals. [nursing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nursing is more commonly used than lactation in everyday language, as it has a broader range of meanings and applications beyond just milk production. Lactation is a more technical and scientific term that is primarily used in medical or biological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lactation and nursing?
Lactation is a more formal term that is typically used in technical or scientific contexts, while nursing is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.