What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
devoid
Example
The room was devoid of any furniture. [devoid: adjective]
Example
She felt devoid of any emotion after the breakup. [devoid: preposition]
bereft
Example
After the fire, the family was bereft of their home and all their possessions. [bereft: preposition]
Example
He was bereft of hope after his wife passed away. [bereft: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Devoid is less common than bereft in everyday language, and is often used in more formal contexts. Bereft is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between devoid and bereft?
Devoid is more formal than bereft, which is often used in everyday language and can be employed in various formality levels.
