What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
putrefied
Example
The putrefied smell of the garbage made me gag. [putrefied: adjective]
Example
The meat had putrefied in the fridge after being left there for weeks. [putrefied: verb]
decomposed
Example
The leaves had decomposed into rich soil. [decomposed: verb]
Example
The decomposed body was found in the woods. [decomposed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decomposed is more commonly used than putrefied in everyday language. Decomposed is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while putrefied is less common and more specific to advanced stages of decay.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between putrefied and decomposed?
Both putrefied and decomposed are formal terms that are commonly used in scientific and medical contexts. However, putrefied may have a stronger negative connotation and is less commonly used in everyday language.
