What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consume
Example
I consume a lot of water during my workout. [consume: verb]
Example
The factory consumes a large amount of energy to operate its machinery. [consumes: present tense]
Example
She likes to consume books on a variety of topics. [consume: verb]
deplete
Example
The oil reserves are being depleted at an alarming rate. [depleted: past participle]
Example
The constant stress has depleted her energy levels. [deplete: verb]
Example
Overfishing has depleted the fish population in this area. [depleted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consume is more commonly used than deplete in everyday language. Consume is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while deplete is more specific and limited to certain situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consume and deplete?
Both consume and deplete can be used in formal and informal contexts, but deplete may be more formal due to its technical or scientific connotations.
