What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abrogate
Example
The government decided to abrogate the treaty due to violations by the other party. [abrogate: verb]
Example
The new administration plans to abrogate several regulations put in place by the previous government. [abrogating: gerund or present participle]
repeal
Example
The government decided to repeal the law that had been in place for over a decade. [repeal: verb]
Example
The opposition party is calling for the repeal of the controversial policy. [repealing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repeal is more commonly used than abrogate in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abrogate and repeal?
Abrogate is considered more formal than repeal and is often used in legal or political contexts.
