What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
respiratory
Example
The respiratory system includes the lungs, trachea, bronchi, and diaphragm. [respiratory: adjective]
Example
Breathing is a vital part of the respiratory process. [respiratory: noun]
Example
He was diagnosed with a respiratory infection and prescribed antibiotics. [respiratory: adjective]
ventilatory
Example
The patient required ventilatory support after surgery. [ventilatory: adjective]
Example
The nurse adjusted the ventilatory settings to improve oxygenation. [ventilatory: adjective]
Example
The doctor recommended a ventilatory assessment to evaluate respiratory function. [ventilatory: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Respiratory is more common than ventilatory in everyday language and medical contexts. Respiratory is a broad term that covers various aspects of breathing, while ventilatory is more specific to mechanical support for breathing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between respiratory and ventilatory?
Respiratory is a neutral and versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while ventilatory is more technical and formal, typically used in medical contexts and interventions.
