What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orthotic
Example
The doctor prescribed an orthotic for my flat feet. [orthotic: noun]
Example
She wore an orthotic brace to help with her knee pain. [orthotic: adjective]
prosthesis
Example
He received a prosthesis after losing his leg in a car accident. [prosthesis: noun]
Example
The new prosthetic hand allowed her to perform daily tasks more easily. [prosthetic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Orthotic is more commonly used than prosthesis in everyday language. Orthotic is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prosthesis is less common and refers specifically to artificial limbs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orthotic and prosthesis?
While orthotic is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, prosthesis is more formal and technical, often used in medical or scientific contexts.
