What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
seconal
Example
The doctor prescribed Seconal to help me sleep. [Seconal: noun]
Example
She took a Seconal pill before her flight to calm her nerves. [Seconal: adjective]
barbiturate
Example
Barbiturates were commonly used as sleeping pills in the past. [barbiturates: noun]
Example
The patient was given a barbiturate injection to reduce their seizures. [barbiturate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Barbiturate is a more common term than Seconal in everyday language, as it is a broader term that covers a range of medications. However, Seconal may be more commonly used in medical contexts or when referring specifically to the medication containing secobarbital.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between seconal and barbiturate?
Both Seconal and barbiturate are formal terms that are typically used in medical or scientific contexts. However, Seconal may be more associated with a specific brand name and therefore may be less versatile in formal contexts compared to barbiturate.
