What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decrepit
Example
The decrepit old man struggled to walk down the stairs. [decrepit: adjective]
Example
The decrepit house had broken windows and a sagging roof. [decrepit: adjective]
dilapidated
Example
The dilapidated factory had rusted machinery and broken windows. [dilapidated: adjective]
Example
The dilapidated neighborhood was filled with abandoned buildings and overgrown lots. [dilapidated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dilapidated is more commonly used than decrepit in everyday language. Dilapidated is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while decrepit is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decrepit and dilapidated?
Both decrepit and dilapidated are informal words and are not typically used in formal writing or speech.
