What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
volatilize
Example
The chemist used heat to volatilize the liquid sample. [volatilize: verb]
Example
The substance will volatilize at high temperatures. [volatilize: verb]
evaporate
Example
The puddle will evaporate in the sun. [evaporate: verb]
Example
The chemist allowed the solvent to evaporate, leaving behind the solute. [evaporate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Evaporate is more commonly used than volatilize in everyday language, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts. Volatilize is a more specialized term that is primarily used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between volatilize and evaporate?
Volatilize is a more formal term than evaporate, as it is primarily used in scientific or technical contexts. Evaporate is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
