What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fired
Example
He was fired from his job for consistently showing up late. [fired: verb]
Example
The company had to fire several employees due to financial difficulties. [fire: verb]
Example
The soldier fired his weapon at the enemy. [fired: past tense]
terminated
Example
She was terminated from her position for violating company policy. [terminated: verb]
Example
The landlord terminated the lease early due to the tenant's failure to pay rent. [terminated: verb]
Example
The movie was terminated halfway through due to technical difficulties. [terminated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fired is more commonly used in everyday language, while terminated is more formal and often used in legal or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fired and terminated?
Terminated is more formal and neutral, and can be used in legal or business contexts, while fired is more informal and can have a negative connotation.