What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abandoned
Example
The abandoned house was overgrown with vines and weeds. [abandoned: adjective]
Example
The puppy was found abandoned on the side of the road. [abandoned: past participle]
Example
The company abandoned its plans to expand into international markets. [abandoned: verb]
discarded
Example
The discarded food attracted rats and other pests. [discarded: adjective]
Example
She rummaged through the discarded clothes looking for something to wear. [discarded: past participle]
Example
He felt discarded and unappreciated after being passed over for the promotion. [discarded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discarded is more commonly used than abandoned in everyday language. Discarded is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while abandoned is more specific and often used in certain situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between abandoned and discarded?
Both abandoned and discarded are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.