What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lignocaine
Example
The dentist applied lignocaine to my gums before starting the procedure. [lignocaine: noun]
Example
The patient was given a lignocaine injection to numb the area before the surgery. [lignocaine: adjective]
lidocaine
Example
The doctor applied lidocaine to the skin before the biopsy. [lidocaine: noun]
Example
The patient was given a lidocaine injection to numb the area before the surgery. [lidocaine: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lidocaine is more commonly used in the United States, while lignocaine is more commonly used in the United Kingdom. However, both are widely used in medical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lignocaine and lidocaine?
Both lignocaine and lidocaine are formal terms used in medical settings and are not commonly used in everyday language.