What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nitrate
Example
The soil was tested for nitrate levels to determine its fertility. [nitrate: noun]
Example
The farmer applied a nitrate-rich fertilizer to the crops to promote growth. [nitrate: adjective]
nitrite
Example
The lab technician analyzed the water sample for nitrite levels. [nitrite: noun]
Example
The bacon was treated with sodium nitrite to preserve its freshness. [nitrite: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nitrate is more commonly used than nitrite in everyday language, especially in scientific and agricultural contexts. Nitrite is more specific to food preservation and processing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between nitrate and nitrite?
Both nitrate and nitrite are formal words that are commonly used in scientific and technical writing. However, nitrate is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including agriculture, chemistry, and medicine.