What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
secretion
Example
The pancreas is responsible for the secretion of insulin. [secretion: noun]
Example
The salivary glands secrete saliva to aid in digestion. [secrete: verb]
excretion
Example
The kidneys are responsible for the excretion of urine. [excretion: noun]
Example
The body excretes excess salt through sweat. [excretes: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excretion is more commonly used than secretion in everyday language. Excretion is a more general term that covers a wider range of bodily functions, while secretion is more specific and refers to the production and release of substances from glands or organs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between secretion and excretion?
Both secretion and excretion are formal terms that are commonly used in medical and scientific contexts.
