What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alight
Example
Please wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before alighting. [alight: verb]
Example
The queen alighted from her carriage and greeted the crowd. [alighted: past tense]
disembark
Example
Passengers are requested to remain seated until the plane has fully disembarked. [disembarked: past participle]
Example
The troops disembarked from the transport and began their mission. [disembark: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disembark is less common than alight in everyday language, but it is still widely used in formal contexts, such as in travel or military settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alight and disembark?
Disembark is generally considered more formal than alight, making it more appropriate for formal writing or speech, while alight is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
