What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disincentive
Example
The high taxes on cigarettes serve as a disincentive for people to smoke. [disincentive: noun]
Example
The lack of job security can be a disincentive for employees to work hard. [disincentive: adjective]
impediment
Example
The language barrier was an impediment to their communication. [impediment: noun]
Example
The heavy traffic was an impediment to their arrival at the airport. [impediment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Impediment is more commonly used than disincentive in everyday language. Impediment is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while disincentive is less common and is typically used in specific fields such as economics or psychology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disincentive and impediment?
Both disincentive and impediment are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic contexts. However, impediment may be more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while disincentive is more specific and may be less appropriate in casual conversations.
