What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
commandeer
Example
During the war, the military commandeeredsome civilian vehicles for transportation. [commandeered: past tense verb]
Example
The government has the power to commandeer private property in times of crisis. [commandeer: verb]
confiscate
Example
The police confiscated the drugs during the raid. [confiscated: past tense verb]
Example
If you bring prohibited items into the airport, they will be confiscated. [confiscate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Confiscate is more commonly used than commandeer in everyday language. Confiscate is frequently used in legal and official contexts, while commandeer is less common and often associated with specific situations or emergencies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between commandeer and confiscate?
While commandeer is typically used in more formal or specialized contexts, confiscate can be used in both formal and informal situations, making it more versatile in everyday conversations.