What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
devise
Example
The team had to devise a new marketing strategy to attract more customers. [devise: verb]
Example
She spent hours devising a plan to surprise her friend on their birthday. [devising: gerund or present participle]
invent
Example
Thomas Edison invented the light bulb. [invented: past tense]
Example
She is known for inventing a new type of eco-friendly packaging. [inventing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Invent is more commonly used than devise in everyday language. Invent is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while devise is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between devise and invent?
While invent can be used in both formal and informal contexts, devise is typically associated with a more formal tone and is often used in professional or academic settings.