What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ligand
Example
The hormone insulin is a ligand that binds to the insulin receptor. [ligand: noun]
Example
The drug acts as a ligand to the receptor, triggering a cellular response. [ligand: noun]
Example
The water molecule can act as a ligand to a metal ion in a coordination compound. [ligand: noun]
receptor
Example
The olfactory receptor in the nose detects odor molecules. [receptor: noun]
Example
The insulin receptor on the cell surface binds to insulin and triggers glucose uptake. [receptor: noun]
Example
The G protein-coupled receptor is a common target for many drugs. [receptor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Receptor is more commonly used than ligand in scientific literature and everyday language. Receptor is a more general term that covers a wide range of contexts, while ligand is more specific and often used in the context of drug development and protein interactions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ligand and receptor?
Both ligand and receptor are technical terms used in scientific fields, making them more formal than everyday language. However, receptor is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
