Flatus-Afflatus | Commonly Confused Words
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Flatus vs. Afflatus

Flatus

Gas in the stomach or intestines expelled through the anus

Examples:

The sudden flatus broke the silence in the room.Doctors often ask about diet when discussing flatus.Her laughter turned to embarrassment with unexpected flatus.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Afflatus

A sudden inspiration or creative impulse.

Examples:

A sudden afflatus led her to compose a beautiful sonata.The artist credited his masterpiece to a rare afflatus.In the woods, an afflatus hit, inspiring her next novel.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Flatus refers to the gas generated in the digestive tract, while afflatus is a metaphorical wind of inspiration.
  • Remember that flatus is related to biological functions and often associated with flatulence, while afflatus is more poetic and tied to creativity.
  • Think of flatus as something physical and afflatus as something mental or spiritual.
  • If youre discussing bodily functions, youre likely referring to flatus.
  • When talking about inspiration or genius, you're likely thinking of afflatus.
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