What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
psychosis
Example
The patient was diagnosed with psychosis and was prescribed medication. [psychosis: noun]
Example
She experienced a psychotic episode and was hospitalized for treatment. [psychotic: adjective]
derangement
Example
The suspect's lawyer argued that his client suffered from a temporary derangement of the mind. [derangement: noun]
Example
Her deranged behavior caused concern among her family and friends. [deranged: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Psychosis is a more common term in medical and scientific contexts, while derangement is more commonly used in informal language and literature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between psychosis and derangement?
Psychosis is a more formal term than derangement, which can have negative connotations and be used in a derogatory way.