What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dissipated
Example
He was known for his dissipated lifestyle, spending all his money on parties and alcohol. [dissipated: adjective]
Example
She dissipated her inheritance on gambling and luxury goods. [dissipated: verb]
profligate
Example
The profligate businessman spent millions on lavish parties and vacations. [profligate: adjective]
Example
She was accused of profligate spending and misusing company funds. [profligate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Profligate is less common than dissipated in everyday language, but it is still used in formal contexts such as legal or financial documents.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dissipated and profligate?
Profligate is generally considered more formal than dissipated, and it is often used in legal or financial contexts. Dissipated is more informal and is commonly used in everyday conversation.
