What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
immure
Example
The prisoners were immured in their cells for days without any contact with the outside world. [immured: verb]
Example
The castle was immured by high walls and a moat, making it impenetrable. [immured: past participle]
incarcerate
Example
The judge decided to incarcerate the criminal for ten years for his crimes. [incarcerate: verb]
Example
The refugees were incarcerated in a detention center until their asylum claims were processed. [incarcerated: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incarcerate is more commonly used than immure in everyday language, especially in legal or criminal justice contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between immure and incarcerate?
Immure is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while incarcerate can be used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in legal or criminal justice settings.
