What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
excess
Example
The company had to dispose of the excess inventory. [excess: noun]
Example
She ate to excess and felt sick afterwards. [excess: adverb]
surplus
Example
The government had a budget surplus this year. [surplus: noun]
Example
The surplus food was donated to the local food bank. [surplus: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excess is more commonly used than surplus in everyday language, but both words are widely understood and used in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between excess and surplus?
Surplus is generally more formal than excess, making it more appropriate for use in academic or professional settings.
