Ultrasound Vs Ultrasonic: Meaning And Differences

Most people assume that the words “ultrasound” and “ultrasonic” are synonyms, so they use them interchangeably. Yes, this is true in some cases but not all situations; you must learn the definitions and meanings of these words to understand the difference. Understanding ultrasound vs ultrasonic will help you know the correct application of these words.

“Ultrasound” and “ultrasonic” describe sounds or waves with a frequency more significant than the limit of human hearing which is 20,000 Hz. Ultrasound means vibrations or sounds with ultrasonic frequency, mainly during clinical imaging, while ultrasonic means showcasing sound waves above human audibility.

Use the words ultrasounds and ultrasonic interchangeably when talking about sounds above the upper limit of human hearing. The other definitions and meanings of these words are different. This article will explain the difference between these words and why you should not always use them interchangeably.

Definitions Of Ultrasound And Ultrasonic

One of the primary reasons people use the words ultrasound and ultrasonic interchangeably is because both words describe sounds with high frequency that are not audible to the human ear. However, if you look at the terms individually, you will learn they have some variations. That means you should not use them as synonyms blindly.

What Is The Definition Of Ultrasound?

Ultrasound, whose synonym is ultrasonogram, is a procedure that uses high-energy waves to examine the tissues and organs in the body. The sound waves using this procedure make echoes that form pictures of organs and tissues on a computer screen.

These pictures are referred to as sonograms when printed out. They are the products of ultrasound given out to take home. The medical field uses ultrasound processes to help diagnose conditions such as cancer biopsies and check an unborn baby’s fetus.

Ultrasound also applies in medical sectors and research institutions with departments that deal with X-rays and radiation. Diagnostic ultrasound, also known as diagnostic medical sonography, is an imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images or structures within the body.

This imagining is vital in medicine as it helps diagnose and direct treatments for various diseases and conditions. Note that only a qualified medical practitioner conducts an ultrasound.

What Is The Definition Of Ultrasonic?

Ultrasonic means involving sound that is too high for people to hear. The creation of this sound happens when electrical signals send bursts of electrical energy to a piezoelectric crystal found in the transducer. When this happens, the crystal vibrates, thus converting the electrical pulses into mechanical vibrations known as sound waves.

Ultrasonics also applies in waves to therapy diagnostics, such as deep-heat treatment on the joints. You can also use it in the imaging of internal structures.

How To Properly Use Ultrasound And Ultrasonic In Your Sentences

When learning a new word, it is essential to learn how to use it in sentences. That means understanding the grammar rules surrounding the word so you can embrace it correctly in your written or spoken language. With that in mind, here is a look at how to properly use ultrasound and ultrasonic words in your sentences.

How To Use Ultrasound

In every word, it is vital to learn the connotation. That will enable you to understand how to use it in your sentences. In the case of ultrasound, the word has a neutral connotation. Use ultrasound when talking about a sound with an upper range more than human hearing, mainly used for imaging.

Also, know the correct field to apply this word. Learning about the applications is the best way not to confuse the use of words in various contexts. Ultrasound is common in the medical field to refer to imaging used to help diagnose and treat a patient. However, if it fits, you can confidently use the word in your daily conversations.

How To Use Ultrasonic

The connotation of the word ultrasonic is that it is neither positive nor negative. The word is used when talking about a spectrum of sound greater in frequency, and only an auditory system can detect it. Humans can’t hear this sound with their naked ears.

The correct way to apply the word ultrasonic is when talking about waves with a frequency greater than audible sounds. For instance, when referring to waves and vibrations.

Sailors use it to determine the depth of a water body; boats have sonic ranging devices that use ultrasonic sounds that help the navigator understand the depth of the water. Thus, they will know the best way to keep their boat submerged in water. Note that most gadgets said to be ultrasonic are used to observe and quantify object ranges.

The word ultrasonic is an adjective, which means you can use it as a naming attribute to a noun. As an adjective, the word definition is; having a frequency above human ears and an audibility limit referring to waves and vibrations. It is utilized, produced by, or related to ultrasonic vibrations.

Ultrasound Vs Ultrasonic: The Differences

Now that you know the meaning of ultrasound and ultrasonic, it is time to learn the difference between these words. Ultrasound is a noun, and the word ultrasonic is an adjective. Additionally, the word ultrasound describes a frequency with more than the upper range of human hearing. On the other hand, the word ultrasonic is beyond the audible spectrum sound in the auditory system.

It is also vital to note that the word ultrasound also refers to scanning and therapeutic ultrasound imagery. Simply put, it refers to the process of scanning patients’ conditions and giving a proper diagnosis. Ultrasonic imaging is also known as diagnostic medical sonography or just sonography.

Examples Of Ultrasound And Ultrasonic Use In Sentences

Learning the definitions and differences between ultrasound and ultrasonic is all you need to apply these words. But can you use these words in sentences?

Reading many sentences with these words is vital to learn the correct applications or excellent techniques to use when creating your sentences. That said, take time to learn from the examples below, and you’ll have adequate confidence when writing your creative sentences.

Example sentences of the word ultrasound

1. Mary decided to have an ultrasound to see how her pregnancy was progressing.
2. The doctors used an advanced ultrasound to examine his heart.
3. Kate had an ultrasound examination this morning.
4. We found the radiologist sitting in a dark room, reading ultrasound images.
5. The doctor has a right to explain why I need an ultrasound.

Example sentences of the word ultrasonic

1. The students were shocked to learn that the ultrasonic wave travels 300 meters per second.
2. The meeting was to disclose an ultrasonic apparatus used in diagnosing ectopic pregnancy.
3. We saw an ultrasonic transducer in his office but did not discuss anything about it.
4.  The company informed us that they might have an ultrasonic cleaning feature and a lubricant.
5. The research paper was on the principles of microprocessors in ultrasonic devices.

Conclusion

Some words like ultrasound and ultrasonic have near pronunciation, near spellings, and near meaning but are not synonyms. To understand the best way to use these words, you need to learn each word’s definition, meaning, and usage. Ultrasonic is an adjective for the word ultrasound, and in most cases, it has a different meaning from ultrasound.

Ultrasound describes a procedure that uses high-energy waves to look at different tissues and organs inside the body. On the other hand, ultrasonics focuses on waves with a high frequency above human hearing. When writing, knowing what you want to say makes it easier to choose either of the two terms.