What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deprivation
Example
The children suffered from malnutrition due to the deprivation of food. [deprivation: noun]
Example
The prisoner was subjected to sensory deprivation as a form of punishment. [deprivation: noun]
privation
Example
The refugees were living in extreme privation, with no access to clean water or medical care. [privation: noun]
Example
The family endured great privation during the war, struggling to find enough food and shelter. [privation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deprivation is more commonly used than privation in everyday language, especially in scientific or clinical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deprivation and privation?
Both deprivation and privation are formal words that are typically used in serious or academic contexts.