What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reactant
Example
Hydrogen and oxygen are the reactants in the combustion of hydrogen. [reactants: noun]
Example
The reactant concentration affects the rate of the reaction. [reactant: adjective]
participant
Example
The participants in the study were asked to complete a survey. [participants: noun]
Example
She was a participant in the discussion and shared her opinion. [participant: noun]
Example
The audience was an active participant in the performance. [participant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Participant is more commonly used than reactant in everyday language. Participant is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while reactant is a technical term mainly used in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reactant and participant?
Reactant is a technical term that is typically used in formal or scientific contexts, while participant is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
