Yes, "adulterated" can mean "tainted," but the two terms can have slightly different connotations depending on the context.
"Adulterated" typically refers to something that has been altered or mixed with another substance that degrades its quality, purity, or effectiveness. This term is often used in legal, food safety, or pharmaceutical contexts.
"Tainted," on the other hand, generally implies contamination or a moral blemish. It can refer to something that has been spoiled or negatively affected in a broader sense.
In summary, while both terms involve a sense of corrupting or harming the original quality, "adulterated" is more specific to the act of mixing, while "tainted" can have broader implications.
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