What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ventilator
Example
The patient was put on a ventilator to help them breathe. [ventilator: noun]
Example
The ventilation system in the office helps to keep the air fresh and clean. [ventilation: noun]
fan
Example
I turned on the fan to cool down the room. [fan: noun]
Example
She is a big fan of classical music. [fan: noun]
Example
He fanned himself with his hat to cool down. [fanned: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fan is more commonly used than ventilator in everyday language. Fan is a versatile word that can refer to a device for cooling, a person's enthusiasm, or a tool for creating a current of air. Ventilator, on the other hand, is a specialized term used primarily in medical or engineering contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ventilator and fan?
Ventilator is a more formal term than fan. It is typically used in technical or medical contexts and may not be familiar to everyone. Fan, on the other hand, is a common and informal term that can be used in various settings and contexts.