What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
descanting
Example
The professor spent the entire lecture descanting on the intricacies of the novel. [descanting: verb]
Example
Her article was a descanting on the flaws of the current political system. [descanting: noun]
expatiate
Example
The speaker expatiated on the benefits of meditation for mental health. [expatiated: verb]
Example
His book was an expatiate on the history of architecture in Europe. [expatiate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expatiate is more commonly used than descanting in everyday language and is more versatile in terms of context and tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between descanting and expatiate?
Both descanting and expatiate can be used in formal or academic contexts, but descanting may sound more archaic or outdated in some situations.