What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
percolate
Example
The coffee began to percolate through the filter and into the pot. [percolate: verb]
Example
The idea of sustainability has been percolating in the fashion industry for years. [percolating: present participle]
penetrate
Example
The bullet was able to penetrate the armor. [penetrate: verb]
Example
It took me a while to penetrate the meaning of the poem. [penetrate: verb]
Example
The spy was able to penetrate the enemy's headquarters undetected. [penetrate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Penetrate is more commonly used than percolate in everyday language. Penetrate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while percolate is less common and often used in specific contexts related to liquids or information.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between percolate and penetrate?
Both percolate and penetrate can be used in formal and informal contexts, but penetrate may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with deeper understanding or access.
