What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prophylaxis
Example
The doctor prescribed prophylaxis antibiotics to prevent infection after surgery. [prophylaxis: noun]
Example
She took prophylactic measures to avoid getting sick while traveling. [prophylactic: adjective]
precaution
Example
He took the precaution of wearing a helmet while riding his bike. [precaution: noun]
Example
As a precaution, she always checks the expiration date on food before eating it. [precaution: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precaution is more commonly used than prophylaxis in everyday language. Precaution is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prophylaxis is more specific to medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prophylaxis and precaution?
Prophylaxis is typically associated with a more formal and clinical tone due to its medical connotation, while precaution can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
