What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decompose
Example
The leaves in the compost pile will decompose over time. [decompose: verb]
Example
The body of the animal began to decompose after it died. [decompose: verb]
Example
The acid will decompose the metal into its component elements. [decompose: verb]
disintegrate
Example
The old building began to disintegrate due to years of neglect. [disintegrate: verb]
Example
The rock disintegrated into small fragments after being hit by the hammer. [disintegrated: past participle]
Example
The company began to disintegrate after the CEO resigned. [disintegrate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decompose is more commonly used than disintegrate in scientific or technical contexts, while disintegrate is more commonly used in everyday language to describe the physical breakdown of objects or structures.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decompose and disintegrate?
Decompose is more formal than disintegrate due to its association with scientific or technical language.
