What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
banish
Example
The king decided to banish the traitor from the kingdom. [banish: verb]
Example
She was banished from the team for breaking the rules. [banished: past tense]
oust
Example
The shareholders voted to oust the CEO due to financial mismanagement. [oust: verb]
Example
The rebels managed to oust the dictator from power. [ousted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Banish is less commonly used than oust in everyday language. Oust is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, especially when referring to removing someone from a position of power or authority. Banish is more specific and tends to be used in more formal or written contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between banish and oust?
While banish is generally considered more formal and is often used in written or formal contexts, oust is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal situations.
