What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lavage
Example
The doctor performed a gastric lavage to remove the toxins from the patient's stomach. [lavage: noun]
Example
The nurse instructed the patient to perform a nasal lavage to clear out the sinuses. [lavage: verb]
irrigation
Example
The farmer used irrigation to water his crops during the dry season. [irrigation: noun]
Example
The doctor performed an eye irrigation to flush out the debris from the patient's eye. [irrigation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irrigation is more commonly used than lavage in everyday language. Irrigation is a common term used in agriculture and gardening, while lavage is a medical term that is less frequently used outside of medical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lavage and irrigation?
Lavage is a more formal term used primarily in medical contexts, while irrigation is a versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
