What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
siliceous
Example
The siliceous rocks in this area are known for their durability. [siliceous: adjective]
Example
Diatoms are a type of siliceous microalgae that produce intricate shells made of silica. [siliceous: adjective]
Example
The siliceous soil in this region is ideal for growing certain types of plants. [siliceous: adjective]
silicious
Example
The silicious sand on this beach is perfect for building sandcastles. [silicious: adjective]
Example
The hot springs in this area are known for their silicious deposits. [silicious: adjective]
Example
The weathering of volcanic rocks can lead to the formation of silicious minerals. [silicious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Siliceous is more commonly used than silicious in scientific and technical contexts, but both words are relatively uncommon in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between siliceous and silicious?
Both siliceous and silicious are technical terms that are more likely to be used in formal or scientific writing than in casual conversation.
