What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expurgation
Example
The publisher insisted on an expurgation of the book before releasing it to the public. [expurgation: noun]
Example
The movie underwent an expurgation process to remove any scenes that might be considered too graphic. [expurgation: gerund or present participle]
censorship
Example
The government imposed strict censorship laws on the press to control the flow of information. [censorship: noun]
Example
The artist's work was censored by the authorities for its controversial content. [censored: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Censorship is a more commonly used term than expurgation, especially in discussions related to politics, media, and free speech. Expurgation is a less common term that is often used in literary or publishing contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between expurgation and censorship?
Both expurgation and censorship are formal terms that are typically used in serious or academic discussions. However, censorship is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while expurgation is more limited in its usage.
