What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instance
Example
In this instance, the company decided to invest in new technology. [instance: noun]
Example
Let me give you an instance of what I mean. [instance: noun]
incident
Example
The incident at the factory caused a lot of damage. [incident: noun]
Example
There was an incident on the highway that caused a traffic jam. [incident: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Instance is more commonly used than incident in everyday language. Instance is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while incident is more specific and often used in emergency or crisis situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between instance and incident?
Both instance and incident can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, incident may be more commonly used in formal contexts due to its association with emergency or crisis situations.
