What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bowdlerize
Example
The classic novel was bowdlerized to remove explicit language and scenes. [bowdlerized: past tense]
Example
The film was heavily bowdlerized before it could be released in certain countries. [bowdlerized: past participle]
censor
Example
The government censored the newspaper article to prevent the spread of sensitive information. [censored: past tense]
Example
The TV show was heavily censored due to its explicit content. [censored: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Censor is more commonly used than bowdlerize in everyday language. Censor is a widely recognized term that is often used in discussions about media, politics, and freedom of expression. Bowdlerize, on the other hand, is less common and may be more specific to discussions about literature or artistic works.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bowdlerize and censor?
Both bowdlerize and censor can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, censor is more versatile and commonly used in various situations, including academic, legal, and political discussions.
