What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disillusion
Example
After working in the industry for a few years, she became disillusioned with the corporate world. [disillusioned: adjective]
Example
The politician's actions left many voters disillusioned with his promises. [disillusioned: past participle]
disabuse
Example
I had to disabuse my friend of the notion that all lawyers are rich. [disabuse: verb]
Example
The teacher disabused the students of the idea that they could pass the test without studying. [disabused: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disillusion is more commonly used than disabuse in everyday language, especially in the context of personal experiences or emotions. Disabuse is more formal and less frequently used, often in academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disillusion and disabuse?
Disabuse is more formal than disillusion and is typically used in academic or professional contexts. It is less commonly used in everyday language and may sound overly formal or pretentious in casual conversation.
