What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decadence
Example
The empire was in a state of decadence, marked by corruption and excess. [decadence: noun]
Example
The party was a display of decadence, with lavish decorations and expensive food. [decadence: noun]
corruption
Example
The government was rife with corruption, with officials taking bribes and engaging in embezzlement. [corruption: noun]
Example
The company's reputation was tarnished by allegations of corruption and unethical practices. [corruption: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Corruption is a more commonly used term than decadence in everyday language, especially in news and political contexts. Decadence is more commonly used in literary or artistic contexts to describe a cultural or societal decline.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decadence and corruption?
Corruption is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, especially when discussing legal or political matters. Decadence can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but is often associated with a more artistic or literary tone.
