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 effects of climate change are pervasive and affect every aspect of our lives. [pervasive: adjective]
undermining
Example
The constant rain undermined the foundation of the building. [undermined: verb]
Example
The negative comments from the boss were undermining the employee's confidence. [undermining: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pervasive is a more common word than undermining in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations. Undermining is more specific and tends to be used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pervasive and undermining?
Undermining is generally considered more formal and technical than pervasive, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
