What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incarceration
Example
The judge sentenced him to 10 years of incarceration. [incarceration: noun]
Example
She was incarcerated for stealing a car. [incarcerated: verb]
internment
Example
During World War II, Japanese Americans were subjected to internment in the United States. [internment: noun]
Example
He was interned in a detention camp for his political beliefs. [interned: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incarceration is more commonly used than internment in everyday language, as it is a more general term that covers a wider range of contexts. Internment is a more specific term that is often used in historical or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incarceration and internment?
Incarceration is a more formal term that is often used in legal or official contexts, while internment can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
