What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prostrate
Example
He lay prostrate on the ground, begging for mercy. [prostrate: adjective]
Example
After running a marathon, she was completely prostrate and unable to move. [prostrate: adjective]
Example
The news of her father's death left her prostrate with grief. [prostrate: adjective]
prone
Example
She was prone on the mat, ready to do some yoga poses. [prone: adjective]
Example
He is prone to procrastination and often misses deadlines. [prone: adjective]
Example
Children are more prone to catching colds than adults. [prone: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prone is more commonly used than prostrate in everyday language, and it is more versatile in its range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prostrate and prone?
Both prostrate and prone can be used in formal and informal contexts, but prostrate may be perceived as more formal due to its association with religious or ceremonial language.
