What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
displacement
Example
The displacement of thousands of people due to the hurricane was devastating. [displacement: noun]
Example
I had to displace the furniture to make room for the new carpet. [displace: verb]
expulsion
Example
The student faced expulsion from school for cheating on the exam. [expulsion: noun]
Example
The machine uses air pressure to cause the expulsion of the product from the container. [expulsion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Displacement is more commonly used than expulsion in everyday language, especially in the context of humanitarian crises or social issues. Expulsion is more formal and legalistic and is often used in specific contexts such as schools, organizations, or government.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between displacement and expulsion?
Expulsion is more formal and legalistic than displacement, and is often used in official or professional contexts. Displacement is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.