What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
depart
Example
The flight will depart at 7 pm. [depart: verb]
Example
She decided to depart from her current job and pursue a new career path. [depart: verb]
Example
The artist's latest work departs from his usual style. [departs: present tense]
leave
Example
I have to leave the party early to catch the last train. [leave: verb]
Example
He decided to leave his old car behind and buy a new one. [leave: verb]
Example
She took a leave of absence from work to travel abroad. [leave: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leave is more commonly used than depart in everyday language, due to its versatility and wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between depart and leave?
Depart is generally considered more formal than leave, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
