What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rheostat
Example
The rheostat was adjusted to control the current flowing through the circuit. [rheostat: noun]
Example
She turned the rheostat to increase the brightness of the light. [rheostat: verb]
potentiometer
Example
The potentiometer was used to adjust the volume of the speaker. [potentiometer: noun]
Example
He carefully adjusted the potentiometer to achieve the desired tone. [potentiometer: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Potentiometer is more commonly used than rheostat in everyday language. Potentiometer is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rheostat is less common and is typically used in scientific and engineering applications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rheostat and potentiometer?
Rheostat and potentiometer are both technical terms and are typically used in formal or technical contexts.
