What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deliberate
Example
She made a deliberate effort to speak slowly and clearly. [deliberate: adjective]
Example
The team took a deliberate approach to solving the complex problem. [deliberate: adjective]
premeditated
Example
The murder was premeditated and carefully planned. [premeditated: adjective]
Example
He was charged with premeditated arson for setting fire to the building. [premeditated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deliberate is more commonly used than premeditated in everyday language. Deliberate can be used in a wide range of contexts, while premeditated is typically used in legal or criminal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between deliberate and premeditated?
Premeditated is a more formal word than deliberate. It is often used in legal or criminal contexts and has a negative connotation. Deliberate, on the other hand, is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.