What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
refracting
Example
The light refracted as it passed through the glass prism. [refracted: past tense verb]
Example
The refractive index of the material determines how much the light will bend. [refractive: adjective]
deflecting
Example
The bullet was deflected by the armor plating. [deflected: past tense verb]
Example
The deflection of the water by the dam caused flooding downstream. [deflection: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deflecting is more commonly used in everyday language than refracting, which is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between refracting and deflecting?
Refracting is more formal than deflecting, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
