What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tarnishable
Example
The silverware is tarnishable and needs to be polished regularly. [tarnishable: adjective]
Example
The brass doorknob has become tarnished due to exposure to moisture. [tarnished: past participle]
oxidizable
Example
Iron is an oxidizable metal that can rust when exposed to moisture. [oxidizable: adjective]
Example
The apple has started to turn brown due to oxidation of its flesh. [oxidation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tarnishable is more common in everyday language than oxidizable, which is more technical and scientific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tarnishable and oxidizable?
Oxidizable is more formal than tarnishable, as it is a technical term used in chemistry and materials science.