Meaning & use
acclimation vs acclimatization
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrasetechnicalbiology
A comparison of two nouns: acclimation means getting used to a new environment, while acclimatization means the same, especially in biology and British English.
Grammar: Used when discussing word choice: 'Acclimation vs acclimatization is a common question.'
Patterns
- acclimation vs acclimatization
- the difference between acclimation and acclimatization
The article explained acclimation vs acclimatization, noting that American scientists often prefer the shorter form.
In our biology class, we discussed acclimation vs acclimatization and how both describe adjustment to a new climate.
For British readers, acclimatization is more familiar, but acclimation vs acclimatization is a useful distinction to know.
Common combinations
- acclimation to
- Acclimation to high altitude takes several days.
- acclimatization process
- The acclimatization process can be slow for visitors.
- heat acclimation
- Athletes use heat acclimation before competing in hot climates.
- acclimatization to
- Acclimatization to cold weather varies from person to person.
Synonyms and how they differ
- adaptation
- Adaptation is broader and can refer to genetic changes over generations, while acclimation usually means a short-term adjustment by an individual.
- adjustment
- Adjustment is a general word for any change; acclimation is specifically about getting used to a new climate or condition.
Word family
- acclimate verb
- To get used to a new climate or situation (American English).
- acclimatize verb
- To get used to a new climate or situation (British English).
- acclimated adjective
- Having become used to a new environment.
Commonly confused: acclimation vs acclimatization or acclamation?
acclimation vs acclimatization vs acclamation
Acclamation means loud approval or applause, not getting used to a climate.
Practice
Which sentence correctly uses the comparison 'acclimation vs acclimatization'?
Choose one answer.
The phrase 'acclimation vs acclimatization' uses 'vs' to mean 'versus' and is written without extra punctuation. Option 1 changes the meaning to a choice, option 2 adds an extra 'and', and option 3 incorrectly adds a possessive.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “acclimation vs acclimatization”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.