What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
porosity
Example
The porosity of the soil affects its ability to retain water. [porosity: noun]
Example
The porosity of the rock allows for the passage of air and water. [porosity: noun]
porousness
Example
The porousness of the sponge makes it ideal for cleaning up spills. [porousness: noun]
Example
The porousness of the membrane allows for the exchange of gases between cells. [porousness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Porosity is more commonly used than porousness in scientific and technical contexts, but both words are less common in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between porosity and porousness?
Porosity is more formal than porousness, making it more suitable for academic or technical writing.