What's the difference between predominant & dominant?

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
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Hi, everyone. This is my first post. I’m wondering the difference between predominant & dominant. Thank you.

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Predominant means that something is more common, while dominant means that it has more power or influence.

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In some contexts the two words are synonyms and be used interchangeably. Dominant can almost always replace predominant. However predominant can not always replace dominant.

You can say:
the dominant theory of evolution
the predominant theory of evolution

Both of the above mean the same thing.

You can say:
the dominant alpha male lion

You can NOT say:
the predominant alpha male lion

The word dominant is MUCH more commonly used than predominant. Off the top of my head I can’t think of any examples of when dominant can not replace predominant. So it’s safe if you always use the word dominant. Maybe someone can think of an exception, but I can’t think of any at the moment.

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Thank you, it’s quite clear.

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Thank you for your reply

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