What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ventilator
Example
The patient was placed on a ventilator to help with breathing. [ventilator: noun]
Example
The doctor adjusted the settings on the ventilator to provide more oxygen. [ventilator: noun]
respirator
Example
The worker wore a respirator to protect against inhaling toxic fumes. [respirator: noun]
Example
The patient was connected to a respirator to help with breathing. [respirator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ventilator is more commonly used in medical settings, especially during a pandemic, while respirator is more commonly used in industrial settings to protect workers from inhaling hazardous substances.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ventilator and respirator?
Both ventilator and respirator are technical terms and are typically used in formal or medical contexts. However, respirator may be more commonly used in everyday language to refer to a mask or other protective gear worn over the mouth and nose.
