What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
patency
Example
The doctor checked the patency of the patient's airway. [patency: noun]
Example
The patency of the glass allowed us to see through it clearly. [patency: noun]
Example
The writer aimed for patency in their explanation of the complex scientific theory. [patency: noun]
openness
Example
The company announced the openness of their hiring process to all qualified candidates. [openness: noun]
Example
The teacher encouraged openness to diverse viewpoints in the classroom. [openness: noun]
Example
The politician promised greater openness and transparency in government operations. [openness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Openness is more commonly used than patency in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be applied in various contexts. Patency is more commonly used in medical or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between patency and openness?
Patency is typically associated with a more technical or clinical tone, while openness can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile term.
