What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prevalent
Example
The flu is prevalent during the winter months. [prevalent: adjective]
Example
The prevalent attitude among young people is to prioritize experiences over material possessions. [prevalent: adjective]
Example
The prevalent fashion trend this season is oversized clothing. [prevalent: adjective]
prevailing
Example
The prevailing weather conditions are sunny and warm. [prevailing: adjective]
Example
The prevailing opinion among experts is that climate change is a serious threat. [prevailing: adjective]
Example
The prevailing fashion trend this season is bright colors. [prevailing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prevalent is more commonly used than prevailing in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prevalent and prevailing?
Both prevalent and prevailing can be used in formal and informal contexts, but prevailing may be slightly more formal due to its association with academic or technical language.
