What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
blackout
Example
During the storm, there was a blackout in the entire neighborhood. [blackout: noun]
Example
He experienced a blackout and couldn't remember what happened. [blackout: noun]
brownout
Example
During the heatwave, there was a brownout and the lights in the house were dim. [brownout: noun]
Example
The power company implemented a brownout to conserve energy during peak hours. [brownout: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blackout is more commonly used than brownout in everyday language. Blackouts are often reported in news headlines and are more widely recognized. Brownouts are less common and are typically discussed in the context of energy conservation or power management.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between blackout and brownout?
Both blackout and brownout are generally used in informal contexts. However, blackout can also be used in more formal settings when referring to power outages, while brownout is more commonly used in technical or industry-specific discussions.
