What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overventilate
Example
She tends to overventilate when she's anxious. [overventilate: verb]
Example
Overventilation can cause hyperventilation syndrome. [overventilation: noun]
hyperventilate
Example
He started to hyperventilate after the panic attack. [hyperventilate: verb]
Example
Hyperventilation can cause tingling sensations in the fingers and around the mouth. [hyperventilation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hyperventilate is more commonly used than overventilate in everyday language. Hyperventilate is a well-known term that is often associated with anxiety and panic attacks, while overventilate is less common and may not be as familiar to people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overventilate and hyperventilate?
Both overventilate and hyperventilate are medical terms that are used in formal contexts. However, hyperventilate is more commonly used and may be more appropriate in formal settings.
