What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
somniferous
Example
The somniferous effects of the medication helped me fall asleep quickly. [somniferous: adjective]
Example
The somniferous melody of the lullaby put the baby to sleep. [somniferous: adjective]
hypnotic
Example
The hypnotic effect of the pendulum put the subject in a trance. [hypnotic: adjective]
Example
The doctor prescribed a hypnotic drug to help the patient sleep. [hypnotic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hypnotic is more commonly used than somniferous in everyday language. Hypnotic has a wider range of applications and can be used in both medical and non-medical contexts, while somniferous is more limited in scope and is mainly used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between somniferous and hypnotic?
Both somniferous and hypnotic have formal connotations due to their medical and psychological associations. However, hypnotic may be more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
