What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preventative
Example
Washing your hands frequently is a good preventative measure against getting sick. [preventative: adjective]
Example
The doctor recommended taking preventative measures to avoid future health problems. [preventative: noun]
prophylactic
Example
The nurse gave me a prophylactic antibiotic before my surgery. [prophylactic: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed a prophylactic medication to prevent migraines. [prophylactic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Preventative is more common in everyday language, while prophylactic is more common in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preventative and prophylactic?
Prophylactic is more formal than preventative, as it is often used in technical or medical contexts.
