What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decommission
Example
The nuclear power plant was decommissioned after it reached the end of its useful life. [decommissioned: past tense]
Example
The government decided to decommission the outdated program due to lack of funding. [decommission: verb]
dismantle
Example
The old car was dismantled and its parts were sold for scrap. [dismantled: past tense]
Example
The team had to dismantle the faulty machine to replace a broken part. [dismantle: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dismantle is more commonly used than decommission in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications. Decommission is more formal and official, and is typically used in specific contexts such as military or government operations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between decommission and dismantle?
Decommission is generally more formal and official than dismantle, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.
