What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
propagating
Example
She is propagating her succulent collection by taking stem cuttings. [propagating: verb]
Example
The government is propagating the benefits of vaccination to the public. [propagating: present participle]
multiplying
Example
The bacteria are multiplying rapidly in the petri dish. [multiplying: present participle]
Example
By investing wisely, you can multiply your savings over time. [multiplying: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Multiplying is more commonly used than propagating in everyday language. Multiplying is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while propagating is less common and refers to specific processes in horticulture or social contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between propagating and multiplying?
Both propagating and multiplying can be used in formal or informal contexts, but propagating may be associated with a more technical or specialized tone due to its specific applications in horticulture or marketing.
