What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
estranged
Example
After the argument, they became estranged from each other. [estranged: adjective]
Example
She has been estranged from her parents for years. [estranged: verb]
Example
The estranged couple decided to sell their house. [estranged: adjective]
divorced
Example
They got divorced after five years of marriage. [divorced: verb]
Example
He is now a divorced man. [divorced: adjective]
Example
The divorced couple has joint custody of their children. [divorced: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Divorced is more commonly used than estranged in everyday language, as it is a more specific term that is widely recognized. Estranged is less common and may be used more in formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between estranged and divorced?
Both estranged and divorced can be used in formal or informal contexts, but divorced is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, including legal and official documents.
