What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dissipate
Example
The smoke from the fire began to dissipate as the wind picked up. [dissipate: verb]
Example
The tension in the room slowly dissipated as people began to relax. [dissipated: past participle]
disappear
Example
The magician made the rabbit disappear with a wave of his wand. [disappear: verb]
Example
The sun disappeared behind the clouds, casting a shadow over the park. [disappeared: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disappear is more common than dissipate in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts. Dissipate is more technical and specific, and it is often used in scientific or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dissipate and disappear?
Dissipate is more formal and technical than disappear, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
