What is the difference between prevalent and prevailing?

Definitions

prevalent

- Describing something that is widespread or commonly found in a particular area or population.

- Referring to a situation or condition that is dominant or influential in a given context.

- Talking about a trend or pattern that is currently popular or in fashion.

prevailing

- Describing something that is currently existing or in effect.

- Referring to a situation or condition that is dominant or most common in a given context.

- Talking about a trend or pattern that is currently popular or in fashion.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe something that is currently existing or happening.
• 2. Both words can be used to talk about trends or patterns.
• 3. Both words can be used to describe dominant or influential situations or conditions.

What is the difference?

• 1. Usage: Prevalent is more commonly used than prevailing in everyday language.
• 2. Meaning: Prevalent emphasizes the idea of something being widespread or commonly found, while prevailing emphasizes the idea of something being dominant or most common.
• 3. Connotation: Prevalent has a neutral connotation, while prevailing can have a positive or negative connotation depending on the context.

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Remember this!

Prevalent and prevailing are synonyms that describe something that is currently existing or happening, such as a trend, situation, or condition. However, prevalent emphasizes the idea of something being widespread or commonly found, while prevailing emphasizes the idea of something being dominant or most common.