What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suppurate
Example
The wound began to suppurate, indicating an infection. [suppurate: verb]
Example
The doctor noted that the abscess had started to suppurate and needed to be drained. [suppurating: gerund or present participle]
fester
Example
The cut on his leg began to fester and became red and swollen. [fester: verb]
Example
The issue between them continued to fester, causing tension in the workplace. [festering: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fester is more commonly used than suppurate in everyday language. Fester is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while suppurate is a more technical term used primarily in medical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between suppurate and fester?
Both suppurate and fester are formal words that are typically used in professional or medical contexts. However, fester can also be used in informal situations to describe a range of negative conditions or situations.
