What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deceased
Example
The deceased's family received condolences from friends and relatives. [deceased: noun]
Example
The cause of death was listed as cardiac arrest on the deceased's death certificate. [deceased: adjective]
departed
Example
May the departed rest in peace. [departed: noun]
Example
The departed spirit was said to have visited the living in their dreams. [departed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deceased is more commonly used than departed in everyday language, especially in formal or legal contexts. Departed is more commonly used in religious or spiritual contexts, such as prayers or rituals.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deceased and departed?
Both deceased and departed are formal and respectful ways to refer to the deceased. However, deceased is more commonly used in legal or official contexts, while departed is more commonly used in religious or spiritual contexts.
