What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
monad
Example
According to Leibniz, monads are the basic units of reality. [monads: noun]
Example
In Haskell, a monad is a way to sequence computations. [monad: noun]
Example
The ammonium ion is an example of a monad in chemistry. [monad: noun]
atom
Example
The nucleus of an atom contains protons and neutrons. [atom: noun]
Example
Oxygen atoms combine to form O2 molecules. [atom: noun]
Example
In Lisp, an atom is a basic data type that can be a symbol, number, or string. [atom: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Atom is a more common word than monad in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and is more familiar to people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between monad and atom?
Both monad and atom can be used in formal contexts, but monad may have a more philosophical or technical connotation that makes it less appropriate for casual conversation.