What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enlighten
Example
Can you enlighten me on the history of this city? [enlighten: verb]
Example
The documentary enlightened me on the effects of climate change. [enlightened: past tense]
teach
Example
My mother taught me how to cook. [taught: past tense]
Example
The professor is teaching us about the principles of physics. [teaching: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Teach is more commonly used than enlighten in everyday language. Teach is a versatile verb that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while enlighten is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between enlighten and teach?
Both enlighten and teach can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, teach is more commonly used in formal settings such as schools and universities, while enlighten is more often used in informal settings such as conversations or discussions.
