What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
multiply
Example
To find the total, you need to multiply the numbers together. [multiply: verb]
Example
The bacteria can multiply rapidly under the right conditions. [multiply: verb]
proliferate
Example
The use of plastic bags has caused them to proliferate in the environment. [proliferate: verb]
Example
Cancer cells can proliferate uncontrollably and invade other tissues. [proliferate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Multiply is more common than proliferate in everyday language, as it is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts. Proliferate is less common and is usually reserved for scientific or medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between multiply and proliferate?
Both multiply and proliferate are formal terms, but proliferate is more technical and scientific in nature, making it more formal than multiply in most cases.
