What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
educate
Example
It is important to educate children on the dangers of drugs. [educate: verb]
Example
She received her education from a prestigious university. [education: noun]
teach
Example
Can you teach me how to play the guitar? [teach: verb]
Example
He was a great teacher who inspired his students to learn. [teacher: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Teach is more commonly used than educate in everyday language. Teach is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while educate is less common and refers to a more formal or academic process of learning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between educate and teach?
Educate is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while teach can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.