What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intersperse
Example
The author interspersed the text with images to break up the monotony. [interspersed: verb]
Example
The chef decided to intersperse the sweet and savory dishes throughout the menu. [intersperse: verb]
scatter
Example
The wind scattered the leaves all over the yard. [scattered: past tense]
Example
The children scattered the toys around the room. [scattered: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scatter is more commonly used than intersperse in everyday language. Scatter is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intersperse is less common and tends to be used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intersperse and scatter?
Both intersperse and scatter are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.