What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
excerpt
Example
The article included an excerpt from the author's latest book. [excerpt: noun]
Example
The publisher released an excerpt of the first chapter to generate interest in the upcoming novel. [excerpt: noun]
Example
The movie trailer featured an exciting excerpt of the action-packed scene. [excerpt: noun]
extract
Example
The dentist had to extract my wisdom tooth because it was causing pain. [extract: verb]
Example
The recipe called for vanilla extract to add flavor to the cake. [extract: noun]
Example
The professor asked us to read and analyze an extract from Shakespeare's Hamlet. [extract: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extract is more commonly used than excerpt in scientific or technical contexts, while excerpt is more commonly used in literary or promotional contexts. Both words are less common in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between excerpt and extract?
Extract is generally considered more formal than excerpt, due to its association with scientific or technical language. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
