What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
protoplast
Example
The protoplasts were isolated from the plant cells for further study. [protoplast: noun]
Example
The protoplasts were fused together to form a new cell. [protoplasts: plural noun]
cytoplasm
Example
The cytoplasm is where most of the cell's metabolic activity takes place. [cytoplasm: noun]
Example
The ribosomes are located in the cytoplasm. [cytoplasm: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cytoplasm is a more commonly used term than protoplast in both plant and animal biology. Cytoplasm is a general term that covers a wide range of cellular processes, while protoplast is a more specialized term used mainly in plant biology.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between protoplast and cytoplasm?
Both protoplast and cytoplasm are technical terms used mainly in scientific contexts, and are therefore considered formal language.
