What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preponderant
Example
The preponderant evidence suggests that the defendant is guilty. [preponderant: adjective]
Example
The preponderant opinion among the group was that the project should be postponed. [preponderant: noun]
dominant
Example
The dominant species in the ecosystem is the lion. [dominant: adjective]
Example
The company has a dominant position in the market. [dominant: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dominant is more commonly used than preponderant in everyday language. Dominant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while preponderant is less common and more formal, often used in academic or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preponderant and dominant?
Preponderant is more formal than dominant and is often used in academic or legal contexts. Dominant is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.