What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
absorbed
Example
She was so absorbed in her work that she didn't notice the time passing. [absorbed: adjective]
Example
He absorbed himself in the novel and finished it in one sitting. [absorbed: verb]
immersed
Example
The students were immersed in the language and culture during their study abroad program. [immersed: adjective]
Example
She immersed herself in the pool and swam laps for an hour. [immersed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Absorbed is more commonly used than immersed in everyday language, but both words are useful for expressing a high level of involvement or engagement.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between absorbed and immersed?
Immersed is more formal than absorbed, and is often used in academic or technical contexts to describe a person's deep knowledge or expertise in a particular field or subject.
