What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
undereating
Example
She has been undereating lately to lose weight. [undereating: verb]
Example
Undereating can lead to malnutrition and other health problems. [undereating: noun]
undernourishment
Example
Undernourishment can cause stunted growth and cognitive impairment. [undernourishment: noun]
Example
The children in the refugee camp suffer from undernourishment due to lack of food. [undernourishment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Undernourishment is a more common term in discussions of global hunger and poverty, while undereating is more commonly used in discussions of weight loss and personal dietary choices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between undereating and undernourishment?
Undernourishment is a more formal term that is often used in academic or scientific contexts, while undereating is more informal and commonly used in everyday language.