What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ointment
Example
The doctor prescribed an ointment to treat the rash on my arm. [ointment: noun]
Example
She applied the ointment to her dry hands to moisturize them. [ointment: noun]
salve
Example
He applied a salve to the cut on his finger to help it heal. [salve: noun]
Example
The herbal salve helped to reduce the inflammation in her sore muscles. [salve: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ointment is more commonly used than salve in everyday language, especially in medical contexts. However, salve is still a useful term to know, particularly for those interested in natural remedies and skincare products.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ointment and salve?
Ointment is generally considered more formal than salve, which has a more casual and colloquial connotation. However, both terms can be used in a variety of contexts and levels of formality.
