What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
medical
Example
The patient was referred to a medical specialist for further evaluation. [medical: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed a medical treatment for the patient's condition. [medical: adjective]
medicinal
Example
The herbalist recommended a medicinal tea to help with the patient's digestion. [medicinal: adjective]
Example
The plant has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. [medicinal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Medical is a more common word than medicinal in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is used more frequently in professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between medical and medicinal?
Medical is generally considered a more formal and technical term, while medicinal is associated with a more natural and holistic tone that may be used in less formal settings.
