What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tonicize
Example
The composer decided to tonicize the fifth note in the melody. [tonicize: verb]
Example
The tonicizing effect of the herbal tea helped to boost my energy levels. [tonicizing: gerund or present participle]
invigorate
Example
A brisk walk in the morning can invigorate you for the day ahead. [invigorate: verb]
Example
The new paint colors really invigorated the room and made it feel more vibrant. [invigorated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Invigorate is more commonly used than tonicize in everyday language. Invigorate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tonicize is less common and refers specifically to a musical term.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tonicize and invigorate?
Both tonicize and invigorate can be used in formal and informal contexts, but tonicize may be more formal due to its association with music theory.
