What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
marasmus
Example
The child was diagnosed with marasmus due to severe malnutrition. [marasmus: noun]
Example
After weeks of intense studying, he felt a sense of marasmus and needed a break. [marasmus: metaphorical use]
atrophy
Example
His leg muscles atrophied after being in a cast for several months. [atrophy: verb]
Example
The company's profits have atrophied over the years due to poor management. [atrophy: metaphorical use]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Atrophy is a more commonly used word than marasmus in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and is not limited to medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between marasmus and atrophy?
Both marasmus and atrophy are formal words, but marasmus is typically used in medical or scientific contexts, while atrophy can be used in a variety of formal or informal settings.
