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 and turn it into a gas. [volatilize: verb]
Example
The perfume will volatilize quickly due to its high alcohol content. [volatilize: verb]
Example
The addition of a solvent can help volatilize the compound and make it easier to analyze. [volatilize: verb]
vaporize
Example
The laser beam was used to vaporize the metal and create a hole. [vaporize: verb]
Example
The intense heat caused the ice to vaporize and disappear. [vaporize: verb]
Example
The humidifier vaporizes water to add moisture to the air. [vaporizes: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vaporize is more commonly used than volatilize in everyday language, due to its broader usage and association with various fields beyond chemistry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between volatilize and vaporize?
Volatilize is more formal than vaporize, as it is primarily used in scientific and technical contexts.
