What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
teratogenic
Example
The doctor warned the pregnant woman about the teratogenic effects of the medication. [teratogenic: adjective]
Example
Exposure to teratogenic substances during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects. [teratogenic: noun]
mutagenic
Example
The researchers found that the chemical was mutagenic and caused DNA damage. [mutagenic: adjective]
Example
Exposure to mutagenic substances can increase the risk of cancer and genetic disorders. [mutagenic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mutagenic is more commonly used than teratogenic in scientific research and medical fields. Teratogenic is a more specialized term that is primarily used in the context of pregnancy and fetal development.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between teratogenic and mutagenic?
Both teratogenic and mutagenic are formal terms used in scientific research and medical fields. They are not typically used in everyday language and may require explanation for non-experts.