What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
engulf
Example
The city was engulfed by a thick fog. [engulf: verb]
Example
The flames quickly engulfed the entire building. [engulfed: past tense]
devour
Example
He devoured the pizza in just a few bites. [devoured: past tense]
Example
She devoured the book in one sitting, unable to put it down. [devoured: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Devour is more commonly used than engulf in everyday language. Devour is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while engulf is less common and often used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between engulf and devour?
While engulf is typically associated with a more formal tone, devour is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
