What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plasticity
Example
The clay has a high degree of plasticity, making it easy to shape into different forms. [plasticity: noun]
Example
The team showed great plasticity in adapting to the new project requirements. [plasticity: noun]
Example
The brain exhibits remarkable plasticity, allowing it to reorganize and form new neural connections. [plasticity: noun]
ductility
Example
Gold is highly ductile and can be drawn into thin wires without breaking. [ductile: adjective]
Example
The metal's ductility allowed it to be shaped into intricate designs without losing its strength. [ductility: noun]
Example
The leader's ductility in handling crises earned her the respect and admiration of her team. [ductility: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ductility is more commonly used than plasticity in scientific and technical contexts, particularly in materials science and engineering. Plasticity is more commonly used in the context of biology or neuroscience.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plasticity and ductility?
Both plasticity and ductility are formal terms used in scientific and technical contexts. However, ductility may be considered slightly more formal due to its narrower focus on physical properties of materials.