What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
commemorate
Example
Every year, we commemorate Memorial Day to honor those who have served in the military. [commemorate: verb]
Example
The museum organized a special exhibition to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the artist's birth. [commemorating: gerund or present participle]
observe
Example
From the top of the hill, we could observe the beautiful sunset. [observe: verb]
Example
We always observe Thanksgiving by gathering with family and sharing a meal. [observe: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Observe is more commonly used than commemorate in everyday language. Observe is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while commemorate is less common and typically used for specific occasions or events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between commemorate and observe?
While commemorate is generally associated with a more formal tone, observe can be used in both formal and informal settings, making it more flexible in terms of formality.
