What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
polyp
Example
The doctor found a polyp during the colonoscopy. [polyp: noun]
Example
The coral reef was teeming with colorful polyps. [polyps: plural noun]
cyst
Example
The doctor drained the cyst on my wrist. [cyst: noun]
Example
She had a cystic pimple on her chin. [cystic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cyst is more commonly used than polyp in everyday language. Cyst is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while polyp is less common and typically used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between polyp and cyst?
Both polyp and cyst are associated with a formal and technical tone, as they are medical terms used by healthcare professionals.
