What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exanimate
Example
The exanimate body of the bird lay on the ground. [exanimate: adjective]
Example
The patient was exanimate after the surgery. [exanimate: adjective]
Example
The party was exanimate without any music or entertainment. [exanimate: adjective]
inanimate
Example
The chair is an inanimate object. [inanimate: adjective]
Example
The painting depicts an inanimate landscape. [inanimate: adjective]
Example
The rock is an inanimate object that cannot move by itself. [inanimate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inanimate is a more common word than exanimate in everyday language. Inanimate is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while exanimate is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between exanimate and inanimate?
Both exanimate and inanimate are formal words that are more likely to be used in academic or technical writing than in casual conversation. However, inanimate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.