What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nostrum
Example
The salesman claimed his nostrum could cure any illness. [nostrum: noun]
Example
She tried a nostrum her grandmother recommended, but it didn't work. [nostrum: adjective]
panacea
Example
The new drug was hailed as a panacea for cancer. [panacea: noun]
Example
There is no panacea for poverty, but education can help. [panacea: metaphorical use]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Panacea is more commonly used than nostrum in everyday language. Panacea is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while nostrum is less common and has a more negative connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nostrum and panacea?
Both nostrum and panacea are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, nostrum is often associated with fraudulent or deceptive marketing, making it less appropriate for formal contexts.
