What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
immerse
Example
She likes to immerse herself in a good book for hours. [immerse: verb]
Example
The chef decided to immerse the vegetables in boiling water. [immerse: verb]
Example
The traveler wanted to immerse herself in the local culture by learning the language and customs. [immerse: verb]
absorb
Example
The sponge can absorb a lot of water. [absorb: verb]
Example
He was able to absorb the complex concepts quickly. [absorb: verb]
Example
The audience was absorbed in the thrilling performance. [absorbed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Absorb is more commonly used than immerse in everyday language. Absorb is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while immerse is less common and often used in more specific or intentional contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between immerse and absorb?
Both immerse and absorb can be used in formal and informal contexts, but immerse may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with intentional and focused involvement.