What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hideout
Example
The robbers had a hideout in the abandoned warehouse. [hideout: noun]
Example
He was hiding out in his friend's basement until the danger passed. [hiding out: phrasal verb]
retreat
Example
She went on a yoga retreat to recharge her batteries. [retreat: noun]
Example
He retreated to his cabin in the woods to escape the stress of city life. [retreated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Retreat is more commonly used than hideout in everyday language. Retreat is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while hideout is less common and often associated with criminal activity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hideout and retreat?
Retreat is often associated with a formal or professional tone, while hideout is typically associated with an informal or criminal tone.