What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abate
Example
The pain in my leg has started to abate. [abate: verb]
Example
The storm began to abate as we reached the shore. [abate: verb]
Example
The government is taking measures to abate pollution levels. [abate: verb]
weaken
Example
The disease has weakened his immune system. [weaken: verb]
Example
The company's financial situation has weakened over time. [weaken: verb]
Example
The evidence presented by the defense weakened the prosecution's case. [weakened: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Weaken is more commonly used than abate in everyday language, as it covers a broader range of concepts and has a more general application. Abate is less common and is typically used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abate and weaken?
Abate is generally considered more formal than weaken, as it is often used in legal or technical contexts. Weaken is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
