What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
concoct
Example
She concocted a brilliant plan to surprise her friend on her birthday. [concocted: past tense verb]
Example
The bartender concocted a delicious cocktail using fresh fruits and herbs. [concocted: past participle verb]
Example
He concocted a story to explain his absence from work. [concocted: past tense verb]
fabricate
Example
The company fabricated a new machine that could produce goods at a faster rate. [fabricated: past tense verb]
Example
The politician was caught fabricating evidence to support his claims. [fabricating: present participle verb]
Example
She fabricated a story to cover up her mistake. [fabricated: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fabricate is more commonly used than concoct in everyday language. Fabricate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while concoct is less common and refers to a more specific type of creation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between concoct and fabricate?
Both concoct and fabricate can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, fabricate may be perceived as more formal due to its association with legal or official contexts where false narratives or evidence may be involved.