What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pathogenetic
Example
The pathogenetic factors of diabetes are still being studied. [pathogenetic: adjective]
Example
The pathogenetic mechanisms of cancer involve mutations in DNA. [pathogenetic: adjective]
pathogenic
Example
The pathogenic bacteria in the water supply caused an outbreak of illness. [pathogenic: adjective]
Example
The pathogenicity of the virus was confirmed by laboratory tests. [pathogenicity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pathogenic is more commonly used than pathogenetic in medical and scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pathogenetic and pathogenic?
Both pathogenic and pathogenetic are formal words used in medical and scientific contexts.