What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
radial
Example
The spokes on a bicycle wheel are arranged in a radial pattern. [radial: adjective]
Example
The roots of the tree grow in a radial direction from the trunk. [radial: adjective]
Example
I need to replace the radial tires on my car. [radial: adjective]
radiate
Example
The sun radiates heat and light to the surrounding planets. [radiates: verb]
Example
The starburst pattern radiates from the center of the design. [radiates: verb]
Example
She radiated joy and excitement when she received the good news. [radiated: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Radiate is more commonly used than radial in everyday language, as it has broader applications and can be used to describe a wider range of concepts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between radial and radiate?
Both radial and radiate are formal words that are commonly used in scientific and technical contexts. However, radial is more specific and technical, while radiate has broader applications and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
