What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
malformation
Example
The baby was born with a malformation of the heart. [malformation: noun]
Example
The malformation of the spine caused chronic pain and discomfort. [malformation: noun]
deformity
Example
The accident left him with a permanent deformity in his leg. [deformity: noun]
Example
The arthritis caused severe deformities in her hands. [deformities: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deformity is more commonly used than malformation in everyday language. Deformity is a more specific term that is often used to describe visible impairments or alterations in shape or function caused by injury, disease, or trauma. Malformation is a less common term that is typically used in medical or scientific contexts to describe physical abnormalities or defects present at birth or caused by developmental factors.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between malformation and deformity?
Both malformation and deformity are formal terms used in medical or scientific contexts. However, deformity may be considered more informal or even offensive in certain situations due to its negative connotations.
