What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precancerous
Example
The biopsy showed precancerous cells in the tissue sample. [precancerous: adjective]
Example
The doctor recommended removing the precancerous growth before it becomes malignant. [precancerous: adjective]
premalignant
Example
The patient was diagnosed with a premalignant tumor that required monitoring. [premalignant: adjective]
Example
The doctor recommended treatment for the premalignant condition to prevent cancer from developing. [premalignant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precancerous is more commonly used than premalignant in medical contexts, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of abnormal cells or conditions.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between precancerous and premalignant?
Both precancerous and premalignant are formal terms used in medical contexts, and are not typically used in everyday language.