What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inebriate
Example
He was inebriated after drinking too much at the party. [inebriated: adjective]
Example
She chose to inebriate herself with alcohol to forget her problems. [inebriate: verb]
intoxicate
Example
The driver was arrested for driving while intoxicated. [intoxicated: adjective]
Example
He was intoxicated by the effects of the drug and couldn't function properly. [intoxicate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intoxicate is more commonly used than inebriate in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between inebriate and intoxicate?
Inebriate is more formal and less commonly used in informal contexts, while intoxicate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.