What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
penetrative
Example
The penetrative force of the bullet left a hole in the wall. [penetrative: adjective]
Example
They engaged in penetrative sex for the first time. [penetrative: adjective]
Example
The doctor performed a penetrative examination to diagnose the issue. [penetrative: adjective]
probing
Example
The journalist conducted a probing interview with the politician to uncover the truth. [probing: adjective]
Example
The doctor used a probing tool to extract a foreign object from the patient's ear. [probing: adjective]
Example
The therapist used probing questions to help the client uncover underlying issues. [probing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Probing is more commonly used than penetrative in everyday language. Probing is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while penetrative is more specific and often associated with sexual or medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between penetrative and probing?
Both penetrative and probing can be used in formal or informal contexts, but penetrative may be considered more informal due to its sexual connotation.
