What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spinal
Example
The patient underwent spinal surgery to correct a herniated disc. [spinal: adjective]
Example
The spinal cord is a vital part of the nervous system. [spinal: adjective]
vertebral
Example
The vertebral column provides support and protection for the spinal cord. [vertebral: adjective]
Example
The patient suffered a vertebral fracture in a car accident. [vertebral: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spinal is more commonly used than vertebral in everyday language due to its broader scope and versatility.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spinal and vertebral?
Vertebral is more technical and formal than spinal, making it more appropriate for medical or scientific contexts.
