What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expired
Example
I can't use this coupon, it has already expired. [expired: adjective]
Example
The milk in the fridge has expired, we need to throw it away. [expired: verb]
Example
I forgot to renew my driver's license, now it's expired. [expired: verb]
lapsed
Example
My gym membership has lapsed because I haven't been going regularly. [lapsed: verb]
Example
If you don't pay your insurance premium on time, your policy will lapse. [lapsed: verb]
Example
It's been two years since I last played the piano, my skills have lapsed. [lapsed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expired is more commonly used than lapsed in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used as both an adjective and a verb. Lapsed is more specific and is primarily used as a verb.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between expired and lapsed?
Both expired and lapsed are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
