What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delete
Example
I accidentally deleted all my photos from my phone. [delete: verb]
Example
Please delete this paragraph from the report. [delete: verb]
Example
The company decided to delete the outdated products from their inventory. [delete: verb]
obliterate
Example
The hurricane obliterated the entire town. [obliterate: verb]
Example
The dictator tried to obliterate any opposition to his regime. [obliterate: verb]
Example
The company decided to obliterate all records of the failed project. [obliterate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delete is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in the context of technology and written documents. Obliterate is less common and more formal, often used in more extreme or serious situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delete and obliterate?
Obliterate is more formal and less common than delete, often used in more serious or extreme situations. Delete is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
