What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
viruliferous
Example
The mosquito is viruliferous and can transmit the Zika virus. [viruliferous: adjective]
Example
She was asymptomatic but still viruliferous and capable of spreading the virus. [viruliferous: adjective]
Example
The doorknob was viruliferous and could potentially infect anyone who touched it. [viruliferous: adjective]
infected
Example
He was infected with the flu and had to stay home from work. [infected: verb]
Example
The cut on her arm became infected and required medical attention. [infected: adjective]
Example
His computer was infected with a virus and he had to take it to a technician to fix. [infected: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Infected is more commonly used than viruliferous in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between viruliferous and infected?
Viruliferous is a more formal term used in scientific and technical contexts, while infected is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.