What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
putrefaction
Example
The smell of putrefaction was overwhelming in the abandoned house. [putrefaction: noun]
Example
The bacteria responsible for putrefaction thrive in warm, moist environments. [putrefaction: noun]
spoiling
Example
I had to throw out the milk because it was spoiling. [spoiling: gerund or present participle]
Example
Leaving food out in the sun can cause it to spoil quickly. [spoiling: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spoiling is more commonly used than putrefaction in everyday language, especially when referring to food that has gone bad. Putrefaction is a more technical term that is used primarily in scientific or medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between putrefaction and spoiling?
Putrefaction is a more formal term than spoiling, which is more casual and commonly used in everyday language.
