What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
secreting
Example
The pancreas is responsible for secreting insulin into the bloodstream. [secreting: verb]
Example
The spy was secreting important documents in a hidden compartment. [secreting: gerund or present participle]
emitting
Example
The light bulb was emitting a bright glow. [emitting: verb]
Example
The speaker was emitting confidence and authority during the presentation. [emitting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Emitting is more commonly used than secreting in everyday language. Emitting is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while secreting is less common and refers to a specific biological function.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between secreting and emitting?
Both secreting and emitting can be used in formal or technical contexts, but secreting is more likely to be used in medical or scientific writing, while emitting can be used in a wider range of formal or informal contexts.
