What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extinct
Example
The dinosaurs have been extinct for millions of years. [extinct: adjective]
Example
The company's old logo is now extinct and has been replaced with a new one. [extinct: adjective]
Example
The indigenous tribe's language became extinct after generations of assimilation. [extinct: verb]
vanished
Example
The magician made the rabbit vanish from the hat. [vanished: verb]
Example
The hiker vanished in the forest and was never found. [vanished: past tense]
Example
The old castle has vanished over time, leaving only ruins behind. [vanished: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extinct is more commonly used in scientific or academic contexts, while vanished is more commonly used in everyday language. Both words are less common in casual conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extinct and vanished?
Extinct is more formal than vanished, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
