What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
invalidate
Example
The contract was invalidated due to a breach of terms. [invalidate: verb]
Example
The evidence presented in court invalidated the defendant's alibi. [invalidated: past participle]
Example
The rain invalidated our plans for a picnic. [invalidate: verb]
cancel
Example
I need to cancel my flight reservation due to unforeseen circumstances. [cancel: verb]
Example
The concert was canceled due to bad weather. [canceled: past tense]
Example
The company canceled the project due to budget constraints. [cancel: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cancel is more commonly used than invalidate in everyday language. Cancel is a common word that covers a wide range of contexts, while invalidate is less common and more technical.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between invalidate and cancel?
Invalidate is more formal and technical than cancel, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.