What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rostral
Example
The rostral part of the brain is responsible for higher cognitive functions. [rostral: adjective]
Example
The bird's rostral appendage was used to catch prey. [rostral: noun]
Example
The surgeon made an incision in the rostral direction to access the tumor. [rostral: adverb]
anterior
Example
The anterior lobe of the brain controls motor functions. [anterior: adjective]
Example
The anterior part of the heart receives oxygenated blood. [anterior: adjective]
Example
The patient experienced pain in the anterior region of the chest. [anterior: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Anterior is more commonly used than rostral in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rostral and anterior?
Both rostral and anterior are technical terms used in scientific or medical contexts, but rostral is less common and has a more precise connotation, making it more formal than anterior.
