What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
resect
Example
The surgeon had to resect a portion of the patient's liver to remove the tumor. [resect: verb]
Example
The resection of the tumor was successful, and the patient is recovering well. [resection: noun]
excise
Example
The surgeon had to excise the infected tissue to prevent further spread of the disease. [excise: verb]
Example
The excision of the foreign object from the patient's body was successful. [excision: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Resect is more commonly used in medical contexts than excise, which has a broader range of applications beyond medicine.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between resect and excise?
Both resect and excise are formal words used in technical and medical contexts. However, excise may also be used in the context of taxes or duties, making it more versatile in terms of formality.