What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tuberosity
Example
The tibial tuberosity is a bony prominence located on the upper part of the tibia bone. [tuberosity: noun]
Example
The deltoid tuberosity is a roughened area on the lateral side of the humerus bone where the deltoid muscle attaches. [tuberosity: noun]
protuberance
Example
The patient had a protuberance on his forehead that was caused by a cyst. [protuberance: noun]
Example
The tree had a protuberance on its trunk where a branch had been removed. [protuberance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Protuberance is more commonly used than tuberosity in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications and can be used to describe any type of bulge or swelling. Tuberosity is more specialized and is primarily used in medical or anatomical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tuberosity and protuberance?
Both tuberosity and protuberance are formal words that are typically used in technical or scientific contexts. However, protuberance may be used more casually in everyday language to describe any type of visible or palpable bulge or swelling.
