What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dereliction
Example
The manager was accused of dereliction of duty for failing to report the safety violations. [dereliction: noun]
Example
The abandoned house showed signs of dereliction and decay. [dereliction: noun]
abandonment
Example
The dog was found wandering the streets after its abandonment by its owner. [abandonment: noun]
Example
The project was left unfinished due to the abandonment of the funding. [abandonment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abandonment is more commonly used than dereliction in everyday language. Abandonment is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dereliction is less common and often used in specific professional or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dereliction and abandonment?
Both dereliction and abandonment can be used in formal contexts, but dereliction is more likely to be used in professional or legal settings due to its specific connotation of neglecting one's duty or responsibility.
