What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
AWOL
Example
The soldier went AWOL and was later found and disciplined. [AWOL: adjective]
Example
He has been AWOL from work for the past two days without any explanation. [AWOL: adverb]
absent
Example
She was absent from school yesterday due to illness. [absent: adjective]
Example
His mind seemed absent during the meeting, as he kept staring out the window. [absent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Absent is more commonly used than AWOL in everyday language. Absent is a versatile word that can be used in different situations, while AWOL is more specific to military or informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between AWOL and absent?
While AWOL is more informal and associated with casual conversations, absent can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile and widely accepted word.
