What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
proliferate
Example
The number of COVID-19 cases continues to proliferate across the globe. [proliferate: verb]
Example
The invasive species has proliferated in the area, causing damage to the ecosystem. [proliferated: past tense]
propagate
Example
The news article propagated false information about the election. [propagated: past tense]
Example
The farmer propagated the apple trees by grafting branches onto other trees. [propagate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Propagate is more commonly used than proliferate in everyday language, as it can be used in a wider range of contexts. Proliferate is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between proliferate and propagate?
Both proliferate and propagate are formal words that are typically used in academic or technical writing. However, propagate can also be used in social or political contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality.
