What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sanitized
Example
The restaurant staff sanitized all tables and chairs before opening for customers. [sanitized: past tense]
Example
It's important to sanitize your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs. [sanitize: verb]
sterilized
Example
The surgical instruments were sterilized before the operation to prevent infection. [sterilized: past tense]
Example
The baby bottles need to be sterilized before use to ensure they are free from harmful bacteria. [sterilize: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sanitize is more commonly used than sterilize in everyday language, especially in non-medical contexts. Sanitize is a term that is familiar to most people, while sterilize is more technical and specific to medical and healthcare settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sanitized and sterilized?
Sterilize is a more formal term than sanitize. It is typically used in medical and scientific contexts and may not be familiar to everyone. Sanitize, on the other hand, is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
