What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
translatory
Example
The translatory motion of the train was smooth and steady. [translatory: adjective]
Example
The robot arm moved in a translatory fashion to pick up the object. [translatory: adverb]
translational
Example
The translational motion of the car was smooth and efficient. [translational: adjective]
Example
The force applied to the object caused it to move in a translational manner. [translational: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Translational is more commonly used than translatory in technical and scientific contexts, but both words are relatively uncommon in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between translatory and translational?
Translational is more formal than translatory, and is typically used in technical and scientific contexts. Translatory is less formal and can be used in a wider range of contexts.