What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disbanded
Example
The band disbanded after their final concert. [disbanded: verb]
Example
The army unit was disbanded after the war ended. [disbanded: past participle]
disperse
Example
The protesters were dispersed by the police. [disperse: verb]
Example
The smoke dispersed quickly in the wind. [disperse: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disperse is more commonly used than disbanded in everyday language. Disperse is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while disbanded is less common and is typically used in formal or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disbanded and disperse?
Disbanded is more formal than disperse. It is typically used in official or legal contexts, while disperse can be used in both formal and informal situations.