"growth of" vs "growth on"

Question

"growth of" vs "growth on"

Both "growth on" and "growth of" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Growth on" is used when referring to something growing on a surface or substrate, while "growth of" is used when talking about the development or increase of something.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

Use "growth of" when discussing the development or increase of something, such as the growth of a company, the growth of a population, or the growth of an idea.

Examples:

The growth of the company was exponential in the last quarter.
She studied the growth of the population in urban areas.

Alternatives:

development of
increase of
expansion of
progress of
evolution of

Use "growth on" when describing the process of something growing on a surface or substrate, such as mold growth on walls or plant growth on a tree trunk.

Examples:

The growth on the tree trunk was lush and green.
There was mold growth on the damp walls of the basement.

Alternatives:

mold growth on
plant growth on
bacterial growth on
fungal growth on
algae growth on

Answer 1

growth of

This phrase is correct and commonly used when talking about the development or increase of something.

Answer 2

growth on

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to something growing on a surface or substrate.

"growth of" vs "growth on"

growth of

growth on

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