What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
debased
Example
The quality of the product was debased by using cheap materials. [debased: adjective]
Example
The government debased the currency by printing too much money. [debased: verb]
degraded
Example
The building had degraded over time due to neglect. [degraded: verb]
Example
He felt degraded after losing his job and becoming homeless. [degraded: adjective]
Example
The river was degraded by industrial pollution. [degraded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Degraded is more commonly used than debased in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between debased and degraded?
Both debased and degraded are generally considered formal words, but degraded may be slightly more common in informal contexts.
