What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compensation
Example
The company offered him a generous compensation package. [compensation: noun]
Example
She received compensation for the damages caused by the accident. [compensation: noun]
reparation
Example
The government offered reparations to the victims of the war. [reparations: noun]
Example
He made reparations for his mistake by apologizing and offering to fix the damage. [reparations: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compensation is more commonly used in everyday language than reparation. Compensation is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while reparation is more specific and often used in legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between compensation and reparation?
Reparation is typically associated with a formal or legal tone, while compensation can be used in both formal and informal contexts.