What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interrupted
Example
I'm sorry, but I have to interrupt you. [interrupt: verb]
Example
The power outage interrupted our movie night. [interrupted: past tense]
discontinued
Example
The company has decided to discontinue this product line. [discontinue: verb]
Example
She discontinued her studies after the first semester. [discontinued: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Interrupted is more commonly used than discontinued in everyday language since it covers a wider range of contexts. Discontinued is more specific and is mostly used in business or commercial settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interrupted and discontinued?
Both interrupted and discontinued can be used in formal and informal contexts, but discontinued is more formal and is often used in official statements or documents.
