What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pervasive
Example
The pervasive smell of smoke filled the room. [pervasive: adjective]
Example
The pervasive influence of social media on our daily lives cannot be ignored. [pervasive: adjective]
penetrating
Example
The penetrating cold of winter made it difficult to go outside. [penetrating: adjective]
Example
Her penetrating gaze made me feel uncomfortable. [penetrating: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pervasive is more commonly used than penetrating in everyday language, and is versatile enough to cover a wide range of contexts. Penetrating is less common and more formal, and is typically used in specific contexts such as academic or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pervasive and penetrating?
Penetrating is more formal than pervasive, and is typically used in academic or technical writing. Pervasive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
