What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
imprisonment
Example
The judge sentenced him to ten years of imprisonment. [imprisonment: noun]
Example
She was released from imprisonment after serving her sentence. [imprisonment: noun]
incarceration
Example
His incarceration lasted for five years before he was released on parole. [incarceration: noun]
Example
The inmate's behavior during incarceration will determine their eligibility for early release. [incarceration: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incarceration is more commonly used than imprisonment in everyday language, while imprisonment is more commonly used in legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between imprisonment and incarceration?
Imprisonment is a more formal term than incarceration and is often used in legal documents and proceedings.
