What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
excrete
Example
The kidneys excrete waste products from the body. [excrete: verb]
Example
Sweat glands excrete sweat to regulate body temperature. [excrete: verb]
expel
Example
The body expels carbon dioxide during exhalation. [expels: verb]
Example
The school can expel students who break the rules. [expel: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expel is more commonly used than excrete in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications beyond medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between excrete and expel?
Excrete is more formal than expel, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
