What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distemperance
Example
His distemperance led to his downfall. [distemperance: noun]
Example
She lived a life of distemperance, always indulging in excess. [distemperance: noun]
intemperance
Example
His intemperance led to his downfall. [intemperance: noun]
Example
She struggled with intemperance, often overindulging in food and drink. [intemperance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intemperance is more commonly used than distemperance in modern English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distemperance and intemperance?
Distemperance is a more formal word than intemperance, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.