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Diffuse vs Pervasive - What's the difference?

diffuse | pervasive |

As a verb diffuse

is .

As an adjective pervasive is

manifested throughout; pervading, permeating, penetrating or affecting everything.

diffuse

English

Etymology 1

(etyl), from (etyl) diffusus, past participle of

Verb

(diffus)
  • To spread over or through as in air, water, or other matter, especially by fluid motion or passive means.
  • * Whewell
    • We find this knowledge diffused among all civilized nations.
  • To be spread over or through as in air, water, or other matter, especially by fluid motion or passive means.
    • Food coloring diffuses in water.
    The riot diffused quite suddenly.
    Derived terms
    * diffuser

    Etymology 2

    (etyl) diffusus

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Everywhere or throughout everything; not focused or concentrated.
    • Such a diffuse effort is unlikely to produce good results.
    Derived terms
    * diffusely

    Related terms

    * diffusion

    References

    * English heteronyms English transitive verbs ----

    pervasive

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Manifested throughout; pervading, permeating, penetrating or affecting everything.
    • The medication had a pervasive effect on the patient's health.

    Synonyms

    * (manifested throughout) penetrating, permeating, pervading

    Related terms

    * pervade