What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
absent
Example
The teacher marked him absent for missing class yesterday. [absent: adjective]
Example
There was an absent-mindedness in his behavior that day. [absent: noun]
missing
Example
The police are searching for the missing child. [missing: adjective]
Example
The missing piece of the puzzle was finally found. [missing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Missing is more commonly used than absent in everyday language. Missing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while absent is less common and often used in academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between absent and missing?
Absent is typically associated with a formal tone, while missing is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
