What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disfigure
Example
The scar on her face disfigures her beauty. [disfigures: verb]
Example
The graffiti on the building disfigured the otherwise beautiful architecture. [disfigured: past tense verb]
deform
Example
The accident deformed his leg, making it difficult for him to walk. [deformed: past tense verb]
Example
The plastic surgery left her nose deformed and asymmetrical. [deformed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disfigure is more commonly used than deform in everyday language. Disfigure is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while deform is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disfigure and deform?
Both disfigure and deform are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing.
