What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
neutralizing
Example
Adding baking soda to the acidic solution will help in neutralizing it. [neutralizing: present participle]
Example
The diplomat's role is to neutralize the tension between the two countries. [neutralize: verb]
cancelling
Example
I'm sorry, but I have to cancel our meeting due to an emergency. [cancel: verb]
Example
The positive and negative charges cancel each other out, resulting in a neutral charge. [cancel: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cancelling is more commonly used than neutralizing in everyday language. Cancelling is a more general term that covers a wide range of contexts, while neutralizing is more specific and often used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between neutralizing and cancelling?
Neutralizing is typically associated with a more formal tone, while cancelling can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
