What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preventive
Example
Washing your hands regularly is a preventive measure against getting sick. [preventive: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed a preventive medication to reduce the risk of infection. [preventive: noun]
prophylactic
Example
The use of condoms is a prophylactic measure to prevent sexually transmitted infections. [prophylactic: adjective]
Example
The doctor recommended a prophylactic vaccine to protect against the flu. [prophylactic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Preventive is more common in everyday language, while prophylactic is more commonly used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preventive and prophylactic?
Both words can be used in formal and informal contexts, but prophylactic is more likely to be used in technical or medical writing.
